How could a woman be a leader in a patriarchal society (4:4)?
Deborah most likely ascended to prominence because of a power vacuum. With no male leaders stepping forward, Deborah took the initiative. Although it was rare for a woman to do what she did, there was no divine injunction against it (see Miriam, Exodus 15:10, and Huldah, 2 Kings 22:14). In fact, God blessed her for her trust in him, and the people recognized God’s hand upon her.
