Judges 4:13
And Sisera gathered together all his chariots, even nine hundred chariots of iron, and all the people that were with him, from Harosheth of the Gentiles unto the river of Kishon.
Judges 4:13 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse 'And Sisera gathered together all his chariots, even nine hundred chariots of iron, and all the people that were with him, from Harosheth of the Gentiles unto the river of Kishon.' from Judges 4:13 describes a significant military gathering led by the Canaanite commander Sisera. Sisera's amassed army of chariots, particularly the iron chariots, symbolizes his formidable military might and strength. The mention of 'nine hundred chariots of iron' underscores the advanced weaponry and technology employed by Sisera in his military campaigns. The inclusion of the location 'from Harosheth of the Gentiles unto the river of Kishon' highlights the vast territory over which Sisera's forces were mobilized, showcasing his strategic planning and expansive control over the region. Overall, this verse portrays Sisera as a powerful and imposing military leader, poised for battle and conquest.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Judges, the gathering of Sisera's chariots of iron is significant in both a historical and theological context. The mention of 'nine hundred chariots of iron' illustrates the military strength and technological advancement of the Canaanites at that time. Chariots were feared vehicles of war, especially those made of iron which were considered superior in strength and durability. This display of power by Sisera highlights the oppressive nature of the Canaanite regime over the Israelites. Additionally, the location mentioned from Harosheth of the Gentiles to the river of Kishon holds theological significance as it represents the extent of Sisera's dominion over the land. The use of the term 'Gentiles' in this context emphasizes the foreign and pagan influence that Sisera brought with his army. The river of Kishon symbolizes a boundary between the land of Canaan and the territory of the Israelites, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict between the two peoples.
Judges 4:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Sisera gathered together all his chariots, even nine hundred chariots of iron, and all the people that were with him, from Harosheth of the Gentiles, unto the river Kishon.
World English Bible
Sisera gathered together all his chariots, even nine hundred chariots of iron, and all the people who were with him, from Harosheth of the Gentiles, to the river Kishon.
Douay-Rheims
And he gathered together his nine hundred chariots armed with scythes, and all his army, from Haroseth of the Gentiles, to the torrent Cison.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Sisera called for all his charets, euen nine hundreth charets of yron, and all the people that were with him from Harosheth of the Gentiles, vnto the riuer Kishon.