Topical Encyclopedia
The Tribe of Ephraim, one of the prominent tribes of Israel, played a significant role in the biblical narrative of Deborah and Barak's victory over Sisera, as recorded in the Book of Judges. Ephraim, descended from Joseph's son Ephraim, was known for its central location in the hill country of Israel and its influence among the tribes.
Historical ContextDuring the period of the Judges, Israel was often oppressed by surrounding nations due to their disobedience to God. In
Judges 4, the Israelites were under the harsh rule of Jabin, king of Canaan, whose military commander was Sisera. The Israelites cried out to the LORD for deliverance, and He raised up Deborah, a prophetess and judge, to lead them.
Role in the BattleDeborah summoned Barak, son of Abinoam, from Kedesh in Naphtali, instructing him to gather an army of ten thousand men from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun to confront Sisera's forces. Barak agreed to go only if Deborah accompanied him, to which she consented, but prophesied that the honor of victory would go to a woman (
Judges 4:8-9).
The Tribe of Ephraim's involvement is highlighted in the Song of Deborah, a victory hymn found in
Judges 5. This song celebrates the tribes that rallied to the call and reproaches those that did not. Ephraim is mentioned as one of the tribes that responded to the call to arms: "From Ephraim, their roots in Amalek, came those who follow you, Benjamin, with your people. From Makir captains came down, from Zebulun those who bear the marshal’s staff" (
Judges 5:14).
SignificanceEphraim's participation in the battle against Sisera underscores its strategic and military importance among the tribes of Israel. The tribe's willingness to join the fight reflects its commitment to the collective cause of Israel and its recognition of Deborah's divinely appointed leadership. The victory over Sisera, achieved through the combined efforts of several tribes, including Ephraim, was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, leading to forty years of peace (
Judges 5:31).
LegacyThe involvement of Ephraim in this battle is a testament to the tribe's role in the unfolding narrative of Israel's deliverance during the time of the Judges. It highlights the importance of unity and obedience to God's chosen leaders in achieving victory over oppression. The account of Deborah and Barak, with Ephraim's assistance, remains a powerful example of faith and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Judges 5:14Out of Ephraim was there a root of them against Amalek; after you, Benjamin, among your people; out of Machir came down governors, and out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the writer.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
What is the significance of Mount Ephraim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Ephraim in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Ephraim? | GotQuestions.orgEphraim: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
