Israelites, and then renders decisions to settle the disputes. It is probably in her position as judge that the latest commotion under Sisera first comes to Deborah’s attention, for her home is located some fifty miles from the battle scene (4:6–7). It is certainly in her position as prophetess, however, that she sends for Barak; her message to him takes the form of a prophetic oracle. By God’s command, Barak is to engage in holy war and free the Israelites from their current oppressors [Violence