§. 198. Of Baraks Name, Infirmities, and Vertues.
THE second particular is Barak, which according to the notation of the He∣brew* 1.1 word, signifies a 1.2 lightning. Ezek. 1. 13. He was a terrible light∣i•…•…g to Sisera, and his Hoast.
He was chosen Generall against the Army of Iabin King of Canaan, who had* 1.3 oppressed Israel twenty years. Iudg. 4. 2, 3.
One infirmity is noted of him, which was this, that being called of God, he* 1.4 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to go, except Deborah would go with him. Iudg. 4. 8. This shewed both 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Gods power, and truth, and also disobedience to Gods charge. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seemeth that these came rather from the weaknes of his flesh, then from the ob∣•…•… of his disposition. For he quickly recovered himself.
His Vertues were these,* 1.5
- 1. Prudence, in preparing an Army out of those among whom he dwelt, and whom he might best command, and in whom he might best confide.
- 2. Obedience, in ordering matters according to the charge given unto him. Iudg. 4. 6, 10.
- 3. Courage, in setting upon an huge Hoast well prepared, with so few as he 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Iudg. 4. 3. 14.
- 4. Constancy, in pursuing the Victory. Iudg. 4. 16.
- 5. Piety, in returning the praise to God. Iudg. 5. 1.
In Baraks example we have a proof, that such as are weak in faith, may be∣•…•… strong.