“And the LORD sold them into the hand of Jabin king of Canaan, that reigned in Hazor; the captain of whose host was Sisera, which dwelt in Harosheth of the Gentiles.”
This verse is part of the narrative of the Book of Judges, which describes a period of Israel’s history after the conquest of the Promised Land under Joshua. During the time of the Judges, Israel experienced a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance.
In Judges 4:2, we see that the Israelites had done evil in the sight of the Lord, and as a consequence, the Lord sold them into the hand of Jabin, the king of Canaan. This means that God allowed the Israelites to fall under the control and oppression of Jabin as a form of punishment for their disobedience and idolatry. Jabin was the ruler of Hazor, a significant Canaanite city located in the northern part of the land of Canaan.
The verse also introduces Sisera, who was the captain of Jabin’s army. Sisera lived in Harosheth of the Gentiles, which was likely a place inhabited by non-Israelite people. Sisera is an important character in the subsequent events of the chapter, as he becomes a prominent antagonist in the story.
This verse sets the stage for the account of Deborah and Barak, two key figures whom God raised up to deliver the Israelites from their oppression. Deborah, a prophetess and judge, summoned Barak and gave him a message from God to lead an army against Jabin’s forces under Sisera. God promised victory over the oppressors, and ultimately, the Israelites experienced deliverance through Deborah’s leadership and Barak’s military efforts.
The story of Judges 4 highlights several themes, including the consequences of disobedience, God’s faithfulness, and the role of leaders and prophets in God’s plan for His people. It serves as a reminder that when the Israelites turned away from God and followed other gods, they faced the repercussions of their actions. However, even in their disobedience, God remained faithful and raised up leaders to deliver them when they cried out to Him.
Overall, Judges 4:2 emphasizes the cycle of sin and deliverance that characterized the period of the Judges. It highlights the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commandments and seeking His guidance, as well as the assurance that God is willing and able to provide deliverance to His people when they turn to Him in repentance.
