Barak

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew Baraq (בָּרָק), “lightning,” suggesting speed or striking force in battle imagery.
• Period/Era: Divided Kingdom (Judges period, pre-monarchy)
• Main References: Judges 4–5; Hebrews 11:32
• Key Connections: Deborah the prophetess and judge; Jael (ally in the conflict); Naphtali and Zebulun (tribal forces)

Who was Barak?

Barak was an Israelite military leader from Kedesh in Naphtali.
He appears in the accounts of Deborah’s judgeship during Israel’s struggles with Canaanite oppression.
He led tribal forces against Sisera, commander of King Jabin’s army.
His story is preserved in both narrative and poetic forms in Judges.

Key Events & Achievements

• Mustering Israel’s forces: Summoned ten thousand men from Naphtali and Zebulun at Deborah’s direction (Judges 4:6–10).
• Battle at the Kishon: Advanced from Mount Tabor and routed Sisera’s chariots when the LORD threw the enemy into confusion (Judges 4:12–16).
• Song of victory: Joined Deborah in a victory song that recounts the battle and Israel’s deliverance (Judges 5).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Barak is remembered as a deliverer whose leadership contributed to Israel’s relief from Canaanite domination during the Judges period.

Key Verse

“And the Lord routed Sisera and all his chariots and all his army before Barak by the edge of the sword.” — Judges 4:15, ESV