Judg 5:6-8 | TNotes | STEP | 5:6 During this period of chaos and uncertainty, there was little security for those living outside the main walled cities. Even Shamgar (see 3:31 ) did little to alleviate the misery of the common people, who suffered under the hand of the Canaanites and their cruel commander, Sisera.

‏ Judges 5:6-8

5:6 ^a During this period of chaos and uncertainty, there was little security for those living outside the main walled cities. Even Shamgar (see 3:31 ^b) did little to alleviate the misery of the common people, who suffered under the hand of the Canaanites and their cruel commander, Sisera.
5:7 ^c Deborah was God’s agent in bringing relief during this general social breakdown. Deborah did not muster or command the troops, but she was Israel’s spiritual and emotional pillar; she is described as a mother in Israel.
5:8 ^d Israel was in social chaos and also lacked defensive weapons.

• Forty thousand warriors: The Hebrew word translated thousand could also be translated clans (see study note on Exod 12:37).