In Judges 5 What Can We Learn From The Tribes That Chose Not To Participate In The Battle?
Background: The Song of Deborah and the Battle Against Sisera
Judges 5 presents the “Song of Deborah,” a poetic celebration of Israel’s victory over the Canaanite commander Sisera. This chapter reflects on the events of Judges 4, where God raised up Deborah, a prophetess and judge, and Barak, a military leader, to deliver Israel from oppression. Importantly, Judges 5 not only recounts the triumph but also highlights the varied responses of the tribes of Israel—some who courageously joined the fight, and others who chose not to participate.
The Tribes That Did Not Participate
Deborah’s song specifically calls out several tribes for their lack of involvement:
- Reuben – “Why satest thou among the sheepfolds, to hear the pipings for the flocks?” (Judges 5:16 ASV)
- Gilead (Gad) – “Gilead abode beyond the Jordan” (Judges 5:17 ASV)
- Dan – “And why did Dan remain in ships?” (Judges 5:17 ASV)
- Asher – “Asher sat still at the haven of the sea, and abode by his creeks.” (Judges 5:17 ASV)
By contrast, other tribes—Zebulun, Naphtali, Issachar, Ephraim, Benjamin, and Machir (Manasseh)—are commended for their willingness and bravery (Judges 5:14-15 ASV).
Key Lessons from the Non-Participating Tribes
1. The Danger of Indifference and Self-Interest
The tribes that abstained were preoccupied with their livelihoods and comfort. Reuben deliberated but ultimately stayed with their flocks (Judges 5:16 ASV). Dan was occupied with trade, and Asher remained by the sea. Their inaction stemmed from prioritizing personal or tribal interests over God’s call.
For whosoever would save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s shall save it. - Mark 8:35 ASV
This principle echoes through Scripture: God calls His people to place obedience and devotion to Him above personal agendas.
2. The Consequences of Failing to Engage in God’s Mission
The song implies a degree of shame or rebuke for the tribes that did not participate. Their absence did not stop God’s deliverance, but it excluded them from the blessing and honor of being part of God’s victory.
And Deborah said unto Barak, Up; for this is the day in which Jehovah hath delivered Sisera into thy hand: is not Jehovah gone out before thee? - Judges 4:14 ASV
God’s purposes will prevail, but those who stand aside may miss the joy of witnessing His work firsthand and the spiritual growth that comes from obedience.
3. The Blessing of Faithful Participation
In contrast, those who answered the call are praised:
Zebulun was a people that jeoparded their lives unto the death, And Naphtali, upon the high places of the field. - Judges 5:18 ASV
Their willingness to step forward, despite risk, is honored in Scripture. Faithful service, even when costly, brings spiritual reward and pleases God (Hebrews 11:6 ASV).
Application for Believers Today
- God invites every believer to join in His work. Our participation matters, not only for ourselves but for the larger body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12 ASV).
- Indifference or preoccupation with worldly pursuits can cause us to miss God’s best. Jesus calls us to “seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33 ASV).
- There is blessing and spiritual growth in stepping forward in faith, even when it is risky or inconvenient.
Conclusion
Judges 5 challenges us to examine our own responsiveness to God’s call. Will we be counted among those who courageously join God’s mission, or among those who remain on the sidelines? Let us be people who, by God’s grace, answer His call with faith and obedience, trusting that He will work through us for His glory.