Chapter
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Verse

Judges 5:2

ESV "That the leaders took the lead in Israel, that the people offered themselves willingly, bless the Lord!
NIV "When the princes in Israel take the lead, when the people willingly offer themselves— praise the Lord!
NASB 'For the leaders leading in Israel, For the people volunteering, Bless the Lord!
CSB When the leaders lead in Israel, when the people volunteer, blessed be the Lord.
NLT 'Israel’s leaders took charge, and the people gladly followed. Praise the Lord!
KJV Praise ye the Lord for the avenging of Israel, when the people willingly offered themselves.
NKJV “When leaders lead in Israel, When the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord!

What does Judges 5:2 mean?

Judges 5 is a song, composed by Deborah (Judges 4:4–5; 5:1) to commemorate victory over the Canaanites and Israel's freedom from their rule. It reflects the facts of the previous chapter, but it also adds feeling and emotion.

The song begins by blessing the Lord for the actions of His people. It celebrates that their leaders did as they should: they led. As well, the people of Israel willingly volunteered to risk their lives to stand up to Israel's enemy. Right from the start of the song, the Lord is given all credit—even for the willingness of His own people to make right choices.

In every nation and company and church committee, people still bless the Lord when leaders take the lead and lead well. They also praise God when those being led willingly volunteer their time and energy to contribute to the cause.
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