Definition: She put her hand to the nail, and her right hand to the workmenâs hammer; and with the hammer she smote Sisera, she smote off his head, when she had pierced and stricken through his temples.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 5:26. It’s a really powerful and dramatic passage about a battle and a significant victory for God. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a crucial moment in the story of Israel’s exile. Before, Israel was under the control of King Sisera, who was leading their army into Canaan (a land they were promised to occupy). They were heavily outnumbered and facing a serious threat. What Happened? She Put Her Hand: A woman named Deborah (who is also mentioned in this verse) – not a woman of great power, but a strong and determined woman – placed her hand on the nail of Sisera’s spear (the weapon he was using). Her Right Hand to the Workers: She then used her right hand to strike at Sisera. The Smote & Strike Through His Temples: This is where it gets really intense. She didn't just hit him; she smote or struck through his temples. Temples were sacred places in ancient Israel, and striking them was a deeply symbolic act – it was like destroying his spirit, his identity, and his connection to God. What Does It Mean? Victory for God: This verse is a sign that God was actively working against Sisera and his army. It wasn’t just about a single battle; it was a deliberate act of opposition and a demonstration of God's power. Symbolic Death: The "smote" and "struck through his temples" isn't just about physical violence. It symbolizes the destruction of Sisera’s faith, his pride, and his ability to lead. It was a way for God to remove him from power and prevent further rebellion. A Moment of Divine Intervention: This verse highlights that God isn't just passively allowing things to happen; He actively intervenes in events to bring about His will. In short, this verse describes a decisive act of violence by a woman – a powerful symbol of God’s victory over evil and the restoration of order. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from Judges 5? Discuss the significance of the "woman" Deborah in this context? Give you some deeper biblical meaning or interpretation of this verse?