Introduction
THE SONG OF DEBORAH, Judges 5:1-31.
Among the many impassioned poems with which Hebrew literature abounds, this triumphal ode, universally known as “Deborah’s Song,” is one of the most splendid specimens. In it abound force, beauty, grandeur, and sublimity. Bold and startling metaphors, sudden and abrupt transitions, and occasional touches of sarcasm, most consummately set, are noticeable features of the song; and, while they serve to make the thoughts presented more impressive, often render the exposition very difficult. We have felt that no commentary based upon the common version of this chapter would meet the wants of the modern student unless accompanied by a translation more true to the sense and emotionality of the original. The late Dr.
Edward Robinson said of the common English version of this song, that “in many parts it is wholly unintelligible.” We therefore give underneath the text of the authorized version, and, so as to be easily compared with it, a new and literal translation, in which the order and force of the Hebrew original are, as far as possible, preserved; and to save circumlocution, our notes are based on the new translation.
Cassel points out the alliteration, which he regards as an important feature of the song, and as betraying, more than any thing else, the presence of conscious art in its construction. Such alliteration is, to a certain extent, noticeable in the Hebrew text; but an attempt to transfer it into a modern version would be likely to lose somewhat in accuracy. In our own translation, however, we have preserved, at places, even this feature of the Hebrew.
The following analysis will serve to present in a condensed form the order of thought followed by the prophetess:
1 . Opening hymn to Jehovah. Judges 5:2-5.
2 . The emergency. Judges 5:6-8.
3 . Grand triumphal chorus. Judges 5:9-12.
4 . The gathering of the tribes to the war, with praises and reproaches according to their merits. Judges 5:13-18.
5 . Vivid picture of the battle. Judges 5:19-23.
6 . The ruin of the enemy. Judges 5:24-31.
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