And the princes of Issachar were with Deborah; even Issachar, and also Barak: he was sent on foot into the valley. For the divisions of Reuben there were great thoughts of heart.

JUDGES 5:15KJV
Know the Bible

Judges 5:15 (KJV)

What does Judges 5:15 mean?

Judges 5:15 describes how the leaders from the tribe of Issachar supported Deborah and Barak in battle, while the tribe of Reuben hesitated and was divided in their decision-making. The verse highlights both the loyalty of Issachar and the inner conflict within Reuben during a critical moment.

This verse is part of the "Song of Deborah," where Deborah, a prophetess and judge, recounts the tribes' responses to the call for battle against their enemies. Deborah praises Issachar for standing with her and Barak, but points out that Reuben, despite having deep thoughts and discussions ("great thoughts of heart"), did not act decisively. The verse shows the contrasting attitudes among Israel's tribes during a time of crisis.

The Hebrew behind Judges 5:15

  • "Divisions" (פַּלְגּוֹת, palgoth): This word refers to split groups or factions within the tribe of Reuben. It suggests that Reuben was not united, which helps explain their hesitation.
  • "Great thoughts" (חִקְקֵי, chiquqei, from the root חִקֵּר, chaqar): This phrase means deep searching or intense deliberation. It shows that Reuben was thoughtful, but their thinking led to indecision rather than action.
  • "Heart" (לֵב, lev): In Hebrew, "heart" often refers to the inner self, including will and emotions, not just feelings. Here, it points to the tribe's internal struggle and lack of resolve.

Why Judges 5:15 matters

  • Judges 5:15 clears up that not every tribe responded the same way to Deborah's call; some were eager, while others hesitated or debated.
  • The verse emphasizes that deep thinking alone is not enough in moments that require action, highlighting the importance of unity and resolve.
  • This contrast between Issachar and Reuben helps the reader understand the broader theme of cooperation and division among the tribes in the book of Judges.

Where else these words appear

“thoughts” Hebrew H2711 · used in 2 verses

  • Isaiah 10:1 Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that write grievousness which they have prescribed;

“divisions” Hebrew H6390 · used in 3 verses

  • Judges 5:16 Why abodest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the bleatings of the flocks? For the divisions of Reuben there were great searchings of heart.
  • Job 20:17 He shall not see the rivers, the floods, the brooks of honey and butter.

“Deborah” Hebrew H1683 · used in 10 verses

  • Genesis 35:8 But Deborah Rebekah's nurse died, and she was buried beneath Bethel under an oak: and the name of it was called Allonbachuth.
  • Judges 4:9 And she said, I will surely go with thee: notwithstanding the journey that thou takest shall not be for thine honour; for the LORD shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. And Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh.
  • Judges 5:1 Then sang Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam on that day, saying,

“Barak” Hebrew H1301 · used in 12 verses

  • Judges 4:6 And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the LORD God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?
  • Judges 4:10 And Barak called Zebulun and Naphtali to Kedesh; and he went up with ten thousand men at his feet: and Deborah went up with him.
  • Judges 4:16 But Barak pursued after the chariots, and after the host, unto Harosheth of the Gentiles: and all the host of Sisera fell upon the edge of the sword; and there was not a man left.