17. The people of Gilead stayedacross the Jordan.Why did the tribe of Danremain on their shipsand the tribe of Asherstay along the coastnear the harbours?
18. But soldiers of Zebulunand Naphtalirisked their livesto attack the enemy.
19. Canaanite kings fought usat Taanach by the streamnear Megiddo—but they couldn't rob usof our silver.
20. From their pathways in the skythe stars fought Sisera,
21. and his soldiers were swept awayby the ancient River Kishon.I will march on and be brave.
22. Sisera's horses galloped off,their hoofs thunderingin retreat.
23. The Lord's angel said,“Put a curse on Meroz Town!Its people refusedto help the Lord fighthis powerful enemies.”
24. But honour Jael,the wife of Heberfrom the Kenite clan.Give more honour to herthan to any other womanwho lives in tents.Yes, give more honour to herthan to any other woman.
25. Sisera asked for water,but Jael gave him milk—cream in a fine cup.
26. She reached for a tent pegand held a hammerin her right hand.And with a blow to the head,she crushed his skull.
27. Sisera sank to his kneesand fell dead at her feet.
28. Sisera's mother looked outthrough her window.“Why is he taking so long?”she asked.“Why haven't we heardhis chariots coming?”
29. She and her wisest womengave the same answer:
30. “Sisera and his troopsare finding treasuresto bring back—a woman, or perhaps two,for each man,and beautiful dressesfor those women to wear.”