The mother of Sisera looked out at a window, and cried through the lattice, Why is his chariot so long in coming? why tarry the wheels of his chariots?
JUDGES 5:28KJVWhat does Judges 5:28 mean?
Judges 5:28 describes Sisera’s mother looking out a window, anxiously wondering why her son’s chariot is taking so long to return from battle. The verse captures her worry and confusion as she calls out, questioning the delay of his chariots.
This verse is part of the song of Deborah, a poetic retelling of Israel’s victory over Sisera. The scene shifts to Sisera’s mother, who does not know her son has been defeated and killed. Her perspective adds a human, personal touch to the aftermath of the battle, highlighting the cost of war even for the enemy’s family.
The Hebrew behind Judges 5:28
- "Mother" (אֵם, ’em, H517) specifically refers to Sisera’s own mother, emphasizing the personal loss and emotional impact on a real person, not just an anonymous enemy.
- "Looked" (שָׁקַף, shaqaf, H8259) means to look or peer out, often with longing or expectation, which highlights her anxious waiting.
- "Lattice" (אֶשְּׁנָב, eshnav, H822) refers to a window with a decorative or protective screen, suggesting she is inside, separated from the outside world, peering out in hope or worry.
- "Chariot" (רֶכֶב, rekhev, H7393) and "wheels" (פַּעַם, pa‘am, H6471) both point to the military context, reminding the reader that Sisera was a commander known for his chariots, which are now missing.
Why Judges 5:28 matters
- This verse gives a rare glimpse into the feelings of someone on the losing side, reminding readers that war brings sorrow to families on both sides.
- The detail about the mother’s waiting and questioning adds dramatic irony, since the audience knows Sisera will never return.
- By including this scene in Deborah’s song, the text emphasizes the completeness of Israel’s victory and the reversal of expectations for Sisera’s household.