Barak

Barak, son of Abinoam, led the Israelites to victory against Canaanite forces under Deborah's leadership.

Barak was an Israelite commander from the tribe of Naphtali who played a significant role in the victory over the Canaanite forces led by Sisera (Judges 4). Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, summoned Barak and instructed him to gather troops from the tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun to fight against Sisera's army. Barak agreed to go only if Deborah accompanied him, to which she consented but prophesied that the honor of the victory would go to a woman. Barak led the Israelite forces to Mount Tabor, where they decisively defeated Sisera's army. The victory was celebrated in the Song of Deborah and Barak (Judges 5), which praises their leadership and God's deliverance. Barak is later mentioned in 1Sa 12:11 as one of the deliverers sent by God to save Israel from their enemies. The New Testament also commends Barak's faith in Heb 11:32, listing him among the examples of those who through faith conquered kingdoms and administered justice.

Lightning, the son of Abinoam (Judg. 4:6). At the summons of Deborah he made war against Jabin. She accompanied him into the battle, and gave the signal for the little army to make the attack; in which the host of Jabin was completely routed. The battle was fought (Judg. 4:16) in the plain of Jezreel (q.v.). This deliverance of Israel is commemorated in Judg. 5. Barak’s faith is commended (Heb. 11:32). “The character of Barak, though pious, does not seem to have been heroic. Like Gideon, and in a sense Samson, he is an illustration of the words in Heb. 11:34, ’Out of weakness were made strong.’”