Judges 4:15
And the LORD discomfited Sisera, and all his chariots, and all his host, with the edge of the sword before Barak; so that Sisera lighted down off his chariot, and fled away on his feet.
Judges 4:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Judges describes the defeat of Sisera, a commander of the Canaanite army, by the Lord through the Israelites under the leadership of Barak. The word 'discomfited' in this context means to cause confusion or disturbance. The verse illustrates how the Lord intervened in the battle, causing Sisera and his entire army, including his chariots, to be defeated. The phrase 'with the edge of the sword' emphasizes the violent nature of the battle and highlights the power of the Lord in this victory. Sisera's decision to flee on foot after dismounting from his chariot signifies his fear and desperation in the face of the Lord's intervention. This verse serves as a reminder of the Lord's strength and ability to deliver his people from their enemies, highlighting the theme of divine intervention throughout the Bible.
Theological Overview
This verse from Judges 4:15 describes the defeat of Sisera by the LORD before Barak. The term "discomfited" used in this verse refers to a state of confusion or disturbance caused by a sudden and unexpected attack. In this context, it highlights the profound impact of the LORD's intervention in the battle, which led to the downfall of Sisera and his army. The use of the phrase "with the edge of the sword" emphasizes the violent nature of the battle and the decisive victory achieved by Barak with the help of the LORD. The image of Sisera fleeing on foot after abandoning his chariot underscores his desperation and the extent of his defeat. This verse showcases the power and sovereignty of the LORD in orchestrating the events of warfare to fulfill His purposes and bring victory to His people.
Judges 4:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah discomfited Sisera, and all his chariots, and all his host, with the edge of the sword before Barak; and Sisera alighted from his chariot, and fled away on his feet.
World English Bible
Yahweh confused Sisera, and all his chariots, and all his army, with the edge of the sword before Barak; and Sisera alighted from his chariot, and fled away on his feet.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord struck a terror into Sisara, and all his chariots, and all his multitude, with the edge of the sword, at the sight of Barac; insomuch, that Sisara leaping down from off his chariot, fled away on foot,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord destroyed Sisera and all his charets, and al his hoste with the edge of the sword before Barak, so that Sisera lighted downe off his charet, and fled away on his feete.