Book of Judges - Chapter 5 - Verse 28

The verse "The mother of Sisera looked out at a window, and cried through the lattice, Why is his chariot so long in coming? why tarry the wheels of his chariots?" comes from the Book of Judges in the Old Testament. This verse is part of a larger narrative where Sisera, a powerful enemy of the Israelites, had gone into battle against them. However, Sisera was ultimately defeated by the Israelite warrior Barak with the help of the prophetess Deborah. In this particular verse, Sisera's mother anxiously awaits his return from battle, wondering why he has not yet arrived. Her concern and impatience illustrate the anticipation and anxiety that loved ones often experience when someone they care about is away for an extended period. The verse captures the universal feeling of worry and longing that comes with waiting for news of a loved one's safety and well-being. By including this verse on our website, we aim to provide readers with insight into the emotional depths of the characters in the Bible and the complex human experiences they face.

One theological interpretation of the verse where the mother of Sisera anxiously waits for her son's return is the theme of unexpected consequences. Sisera was a commander of the Canaanite army who had oppressed the Israelites for many years. However, he met a violent end at the hands of Jael, a woman he sought refuge with. The delay of Sisera's chariot signifies the impending doom that awaited him, despite his mother's anticipation of his safe return. This verse serves as a reminder that God's justice may come unexpectedly and swiftly, overturning the plans of the wicked.

From a word study perspective, the term "lattice" in the verse refers to a screen or window cover made of interlaced strips of wood. This detail adds a sense of urgency and tension to the scene, as Sisera's mother desperately peers through the small openings, awaiting any sign of her son's arrival. The repetition of the questions "Why is his chariot so long in coming? why tarry the wheels of his chariots?" underscores her growing anxiety and impatience. The careful observation of these words enhances the emotional depth of the passage, highlighting the mother's anguish and the impending judgment that awaits her son.