Who was Deborah?

Judge and prophetess.

The story of Deborah

Deborah - Prophet, biblical judge
Deborah - Prophet, biblical judge
Prophet, biblical judge

Deborah was a judge and prophetess in the Old Testament of the Bible. She is best known for her leadership as a judge over Israel, as well as her role in the defeat of King Jabin and his army by the military leader Barak, with her guidance. Deborah is also known for her song of triumph, which is recorded in Judges 5. She was a figure of great authority and wisdom in her time and her leadership and victory is celebrated in the Bible as an example of the power of God working through his faithful servants.

Name meaning

The name "Deborah" is of Hebrew origin and means "bee." It is derived from the Hebrew word "D'vorah" (דְּבוֹרָה), which reflects the industrious and productive nature associated with bees. In the Bible, Deborah is a prominent figure, known as a prophetess and a judge of Israel, celebrated for her wisdom and leadership. The name has been used in various cultures and retains its connection to themes of diligence and leadership.

Name origin

Hebrew

Role

Prophet, biblical judge

First mention

Genesis 35:8

Appearances in the Bible

10 mentions

Deborah in the Bible

Explore all 3 chapters where Deborah appears

Genesis

Chapter 35

Jacob's Return to Bethel

God tells Jacob to move to Bethel and to get rid of foreign gods. Jacob renames the place Bethel and builds an altar to ...

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Judges

Chapter 4

Yael Kills Sisera

Deborah, a prophetess, leads Israel to victory against the Canaanites.

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Judges

Chapter 5

The Song of Deborah

Deborah and Barak sing a song of victory and praise God.

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