BY ALICE H. MURRAY

Along with the beginning of spring, the month of March brings Women’s History Month. Typically, female figures such as suffragette Susan B. Anthony, aviator Amelia Earhart, and astronaut Sally Ride are mentioned and honored. But another book full of history offers additional women on which to focus. Celebrating biblical character Judge Deborah for Women’s History Month allows learning about a woman who achieved much in a time men monopolized leadership roles.

Who Was She?

Long before Judge Judy became famous on TV, a woman served as a judge for Israel. Deborah lived about 1150 BCE, a hundred years or so after the Hebrews entered the Promised Land of Canaan. At this point, no king had ruled over God’s people. Instead, individuals referred to as “judges” received authority from God to serve in a leadership position.

Little is known in the way of personal details about Deborah. According to Judges 4:4, Deborah was the wife of Lappidoth. The basis for the uncertainty is the same Hebrew word is used for “woman” and “wife.”  So, Deborah could have been a woman from a place named Lappidoth or the wife of Lappidoth.

Unexpected Choice

Surprisingly, God called Deborah to become a judge. In ancient Israel, God chose leaders to administer justice and to free His people from oppression. In a male-dominated world, a female leader was uncommon. God usually appointed men for such powerful roles.

Israel’s circumstances at Deborah’s selection also gives pause. God called her to lead in troubled times requiring a strong leader. She assumed her position when the Canaanites oppressed the Israelites. Her tenure started with approximately twenty years of national hardship before the Canaanite war. Fortunately, her forty years of service post-war covered a time of peace.

What Did She Do As Judge?

Deborah, the only female judge the Bible mentions, was known for her wisdom. The Israelites  came to her to obtain settlement of disputes and to receive guidance. Deborah conducted her business sitting underneath a palm tree between Bethel and Raman in the Ephraim hill country. Those seeking her assistance lined up waiting to speak with her.

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/feettofaith/2024/03/celebrating-biblical-judge-deborah-for-womens-history-month/