Loading summary
Podcast Host
This is an iHeart podcast.
Cindy Crawford
Guaranteed Human.
Redfin Advertiser
You're listening to a podcast, so you're doing something else, too. Like maybe scrolling home listings on Redfin. Saving places you like without thinking you'll get them. Because that's what house hunting has become. But Redfin isn't built for endless browsing. It's built to help you find and own a home. Redfin agents close twice as many deals as other agents, which means when you find a place you love, you've got a real shot at getting it. Redfin helps turn saved listings into real addresses. Get started@redfin.com own the dream previously on the Chosen People.
Narrator
Before the Breaker of Chains came, the Lord would send lesser heroes, fractured and broken images of the deliverer, to come to extend his dominion. Jabin placed his trust in Sisera. And a warlord of brutal renown, Siserar, commander of 900 iron chariots, was a master of death on the battlefield.
Sisera
Are there any men left among you? Oh, just these womanly cowards I see around me.
Narrator
Deborah, wife of Lapidoth, the judge of Israel, dwelled in the presence of the Almighty. She was a woman set apart in wisdom and strength. Her heart was attuned to the will of God.
Barak
The Lord has chosen you.
Narrator
He's. He's chosen wrong.
Barak
Very well, Beric. I shall march down with you.
Narrator
Ha. Glory.
Sisera
Together we can defeat Sisera.
Narrator
Deborah raised her hand, silencing him. Her voice grew sharper, her words piercing through his relief like an arrow.
Barak
I said, I will go with you. However, the road on which you are going, the road of cowardice, will not
Narrator
lead to your glory.
Barak
You will march, but you will receive no victory for yourself. For the Lord will hand Sisera over and slay him by the hand of a woman.
Redfin Advertiser
Let's talk about modern home shopping. It's sort of become a fun side hobby, right? Scrolling listings at night, dreaming about kitchens you've never seen or backyards you haven't even stepped foot in. All from the comfort of pretty much anywhere. Redfin knows a lot of people like you want to own, but are stuck in this browsing mode loop. That's where Redfin flips the script. With listings that update within minutes and tours you can book right from the Redfin app, you can see your dream home the moment it appears. Now, liking a listing is easy, but actually landing it, that's where Redfin comes in. Redfin has over 2200 agents with local expertise, and Redfin agents close twice as many deals as other agents. That means they want to help you win. Not just window shop. Redfin is built to help you go from just looking to wait. This could actually be home. So become the newest neighbor on the block. Visit redfin.com to start finding and start owning. That's redfin.com youm know what quality feels like.
Coldwater Creek Advertiser
You can see it in the way a fabric moves, recognize it in a flawless fit and appreciate it in the details that make our styles unique. It's the standard Coldwater Creek has honored for over 40 years, derived from a rich Mountain west heritage and designed for today in styles that are distinctively Coldwater Creek. For a wardrobe you can count on season after season, visit coldwatercreek.com, shop new arrivals and save 15% on purchases $75 or more with code iHeart.
Cindy Crawford
Now I'd like to introduce you to Meaningful Beauty, the famed skincare brand created by iconic supermodel Cindy Crawford. It's her secret to absolutely gorgeous skin. Meaningful Beauty makes powerful and effective skincare simple and it's loved by millions of women. It's formulated for all ages and all skin tones and types and it's designed to work as a complete skin care system, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth and nourished. I recommend starting with Cindy's full regimen which contains all five of her best selling products including the Amazing Youth Activating Melon Serum. This next generation serum has the power of Melonleaf stem cell technology. It's Melonleaf stem cells encapsulated for freshness and released onto the skin skin to support a visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkles. With thousands of glowing five star reviews, why not give it a try? Subscribe today and you can get the Amazing Meaningful Beauty system for just 49.95. That includes our introductory five piece system, free gifts, free shipping and a 60 day money back guarantee. All that available@meaningfulbeauty.com
Narrator
Thunder was rolling in from the eastern plains miles away from Mount Tabor. Storm clouds churned in the heavens, black and furious, galloping as though driven by an unseen rider. Beneath the turbulent sky, Berach rode at the head of his army, 10,000 strong, their footfalls pounding the earth in unison. The tribes of Naphtali and Zebulun had risen to the core, their hearts alight with a courage born not of mortal strength but of divine command. Yet Berach, astride his steed, bore an expression that betrayed his inner turmoil. Though his head was held high, his heart still wavered. At his side rode Deborah, her presence a bastion of strength. She was clad in leather armor that hugged her frame her hair braided and tucked beneath a head covering. A sword hung at her hip, its hilt gleaming even in the gloom. Her horse, like its rider, moved with grace and purpose, responding effortlessly to her will. The sight of her emboldened the men of Israel, their cries louder than the storm above as they marched toward the valley of Kishon. The land below stretched flat, an open expanse divided by the twisting river. It was perfect terrain for Siserar's infamous chariots, swift, ironclad beasts designed to dominate such ground. Yet Deborah's resolve did not falter. She sat tall in her saddle, her gaze fixed not on the enemy, but on the swirling heavens, as if she could see the hand of God moving through the storm. On the hilltop overlooking the valley, Berach's army came to a halt. The dark clouds above them coiled tighter, lit by sudden bursts of lightning that streaked downward like jagged spears. The thunder followed, shaking the earth and rattling the nerves of even the bravest soldiers. Berach's eyes turned toward the far side of the valley, and his breath caught. Emerging from the hills came Siserar and his chariots, a dark and fearsome tide. 900 chariots, each glinting with cruel iron, descended into the valley. The steeds that pulled them were black as night, their hooves striking sparks from the earth. At their forefront was Sisera, his chariot larger and more menacing than the rest. Spikes jutted from its wheels, and spears bristled along its sides like the spines of a great beast. Even from this distance, Berar could see the cold fury etched into Siserar's face, a scowl that seemed to rival the storm in its ferocity. Berak's courage faltered. His hands trembled, his sword feeling heavier than it ever had before. His heart pounded so loudly that it seemed to drown out even the thunder.
Barak
Compose yourself, Beric. The Lord will provide the victory.
Narrator
Berach looked back at his men. They seemed to be doing much better than he was. Why have I lost my strength? Why can't I be more like her? His eyes lifted to the sky where the storm raged in all its might. Lightning flared, illuminating the swirling vapor of the clouds. In that moment, something clicked within him. These clouds are just mere vapor, yet hold so much power. With Berak began to realize where Deborah's strength was drawn from the same source of Othniel and Ehud. A deep breath steadied him, and his trembling hand stilled. He gripped his sword tightly and whispered a prayer. Power comes from you, O Lord. He turned to Deborah, his eyes now clear. He gave her a single nod and she returned it with a knowing smile. Rising in her saddle, Deborah rode among the troops, her voice ringing out over the tumult.
Barak
Rise, you men of Israel. Up. Arise, for this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Do not fear them. Does not the Lord go before you? Fight not for victory, but from it? You are the chosen people. Step into your destiny.
Narrator
A cheer erupted from the soldiers, and Berarg lifted his sword high, letting out a battle cry that echoed across the valley. With a surge of energy, he charged down the hill, his men following in a tidal wave of courage and determination. Deborah rode close behind, her own shout rising like a lioness calling her across the valley. Sisera sneered at the sight of the advancing Israelites. Their hope made him sick.
Sisera
They send a woman to lead them. Weaklings.
Narrator
Siserar turned to his horde and raised a sword.
Sisera
Destroy the Israelite dogs. Show them your mighty. The first to bring me that woman will have his way with her. Whoever delivers me Barak's head will be rewarded with its weight in gold.
Narrator
Sisera and the 900 chariots behind him charged downward. Berach and Deborah rode in front with fire in their bellies. Berach felt a courage that he had never felt before. He drew back his sword, secured his place on his horse, and gave the first swing at a Canaanite chariot. He delivered a direct hit to the neck, beheading the soldier and causing the chariot to flip over. The next blow was delivered by Deborah. A charioteer rode after her with a spear in hand. He threw it at her head, but Deborah leaned all the way back on her horse. Dodging the spear, she watched it fly over her face. Once it had passed, she sprang back up and removed the charioteer's arm with a single swing of her sword. The chariots were fast. Spears and swords fell, flew at the two of them rapidly. But the courage of the Lord was upon them. Berach rode ferociously, deflecting each spear thrown at him with his sword. He yelled with fire and cut down every charioteer in sight. The men of Israel were also empowered by God. The initial blows of the chariots were harsh, and many fell. Yet it did not take long for Israel to overwhelm the chariots with their numbers. Horses and soldiers fell at the edge of Israel's, and Deborah was among them. To encourage them, she rode gracefully, easily weaving through the fray to reach her targets. She was like a lioness among gazelles. Two charioteers came at her head on Deborah sped her gallop towards them. One of them threw A spear at her horse. It fell, but Deborah launched herself off and rolled onto the ground. Her momentum did not stop. She rolled onto her feet and continued her pursuit towards the chariots. She picked up a spear off the ground and threw it at one of the men. A direct hit. The other soldier rode at her with his sword drawn. Deborah stopped, steadied her breath, and leaped forward onto the chariot. She knocked away his sword and grappled with him. The two of them exchanged blows to the face and stomach while the chariot still moved forward. The Canaanite soldier got the upper hand and threw her onto the side of the chariot. He pressed his thumbs against her throat, slowly taking away her breath. Deborah reached desperately for the man's eyes but could not reach. She had no choice but to grab his arms and throw both of them over the side of the chariot. They both flew off and landed on the ground with a heavy thud. Deborah rose to her feet and dodged the first punch. She ducked, drew a blade strapped to her calf and drove it up at the soldier. He toppled over and died. Deborah composed herself and looked around her. Israel was winning, and Siserar was on the other side, exasperated and scared. Berach was fighting a few yards away from her.
Barak
Berak.
Narrator
Deborah pointed at Siserar, who had been backed into a corner. Berach nodded and rode violently towards him. Siserar swung his broad sword, cutting down two men. With one blow. He cracked the helmet of another, grabbed him by the neck, then flung him into the rocks. Yet more Israelites swarmed him. Siserar saw the writing on the wall. He knew that they were defeated. A sudden panic came over Siserar when he saw Berach in hot pursuit. Siserar turned and fled, scaling a hill that led into the wilderness. Berarch dismounted, his voice rising in fury. Coward. I will have your hand. Berarch's newfound courage made him forget the words spoken by Deborah.
Barak
You will march, but you will receive no victory for yourself. For the Lord will hand Sisera over and slay him by the hand of the Lord.
Narrator
Sisera scaled the jagged rocks leading to the peak. Barak dismounted his horse and pursued him up the hill. Below them, the Israelite army had completely consumed the 900 chariots. Not a man, but Sisera remained. The once green valley was now soaked with the blood of God's enemies. Sisera looked down in terror. A sea of blood raged before him. All hope was lost, and his only option was to run and hide. He reached the peak and veered left through an overhang of oak trees. He hid there until he spotted Berarch turning right. Then he made an escape for the hills.
Redfin Advertiser
Let's talk about modern home shopping. It's sort of become a fun side hobby, right? Scrolling listings at night, dreaming about kitchens you've never seen or backyards you haven't even stepped foot in. All from the comfort of pretty much anywhere. Redfin knows a lot of people like you want to own but are stuck in this browsing mode loop. That's where Redfin flips the script, with listings that update within minutes and tours you can book right from the Redfin app, you can see your dream home the moment it appears. Now, liking a listing is easy, but actually landing it? That's where Redfin comes in. Redfin has over 2200 agents with local expertise, and Redfin agents close twice as many deals as other agents. That means they want to help you win, not just window shop. Redfin is built to help you go from just looking to wait. This could actually be home. So become the newest neighbor on the block. Visit redfin.com to start finding and start owning. That's redfin.com youm know what quality feels like.
Coldwater Creek Advertiser
You can see it in the way a fabric moves, recognize it in a flawless fit, and appreciate it in the details that make our styles unique. It's the standard Coldwater Creek has honored for over 40 years, derived from a rich Mountain west heritage and designed for today in styles that are distinctively Coldwater Creek. For a wardrobe you can count on season after season, visit coldwatercreek.com, shop new arrivals and save 15% on purchases $75 or more with code iHeart. Hi, I'm Cindy Crawford and I'm the founder of Meaningful Beauty. Well, I don't know about you, but like, I never liked being oh wow. You look so good for your age. Like, why even bother saying that? Why don't you just say you look great at any age? Every age. That's what Meaningful Beauty is all about. We create products that make you feel confident in your skin at the age you are now. Meaningful Beauty. Beautiful skin at every age. Learn more@meaningful beauty.com
Narrator
the plateau above the battlefield was quiet, save for the distant clash of swords and the low growl of thunder rolling across the hills. Jael, wife of Heba, stood outside her tent beneath the sprawling oak of Zeon Anim, her face clouded with concern. She could hear the cries of war carried on the wind, mingling with the trembling echoes of the storm. Her hands gripped the edge of a clay basin, her knuckles white.
Podcast Host
Do you hear them. Heber. How many more men must die at the hands of King Jabin and Sisera?
Narrator
Jael's concern did not seem to translate to her husband. Heber continued to mend the wheels on his cart. Without acknowledging her words, Jael shook her head and put her hands on her hips.
Podcast Host
Do you hear what I'm saying? Good men are dying only a few miles away from us at the hands of a tyrant, and you sit here without any care.
Narrator
I have no qualms with King Jabin. I don't care about the descendants of Jacob.
Sisera
We have our own problems.
Narrator
Heber was a descendant of Moses, brother in law Hobab. He was a Kenite and a descendant of the Midianite tribe of Jethro. He and his wife Jael had moved away from the other members of their tribe long ago, and now they dwelled under the oak of Zion Anim, near Kadesh. Heber was a man of compromise and took great pride in his ability to avoid conflict, even if it meant letting others fall. Let Sisera make quick work of the Israelites. Perhaps we can return to peace and quiet. Jael stared at him in disbelief, a mix of fury and disgust curling her lips. She turned sharply, storming off toward the well. The bucket rattled as she lowered it, her trembling hands betraying her righteous indignation. As the water gurgled and rose, her eyes drifted toward the hills where the battle raged unseen.
Podcast Host
Lord, deliver your people. Grant strength to those who stand against tyranny.
Narrator
She hauled the bucket up and poured the water into two basins. With a practiced ease, she balanced them on her shoulders and carried them back to the tent. Her strides were purposeful, her steps heavy with unspoken resolve. Jael had always prided herself on her strength. Strength, she had always felt, might one day be called upon for something greater. The storm clouds thickened, casting the late afternoon in eerie darkness. Jael felt the unease in the air, a tension that clung to her like the humid wind before a tempest. As she set the basins down, a shadow loomed behind her. She turned, startled, and gasped. Standing before her was Siserar, the infamous commander of Jabin's army. His armor was streaked with blood, his face darkened by dirt and exhaustion. His presence was suffocating, a hulk, hulking figure that carried death with him.
Sisera
Is this the home of Heber?
Narrator
Sisera's voice was low and domineering. He did not smile, nor did he reassure her. He was her friend.
Sisera
I know He Bear is a friend of the king. I've come here to hide from the Israelites until I can get back to the king. Is this his farm?
Podcast Host
Well, I. It's.
Sisera
Stupid woman. Quit blubbering and answer me. And quickly before I strike you in the jaw. Barak is not far behind.
Narrator
Fear crawled up Jael's spine, but she kept her head bowed.
Podcast Host
It is my lord Sisera. My lord and husband would be honored to harbor you. Please enter into my tent. Nobody will expect you to be in a woman's tent at this hour. Do not be afraid. I will make sure nobody harms you.
Narrator
Siserar grunted and entered the tent. The commander looked around the inside of the tent, scanning the area for possible weapons.
Sisera
Of course, a woman's tent would be devoid of anything useful.
Narrator
Jael ignored his ingratitude, though her blood boiled beneath her calm exterior. As she turned to leave, he grabbed her arm.
Sisera
Bring me something to drink. At once.
Narrator
Jael released her arm and bowed her head. She came back with a skin of milk and a cup of water. He took them and drank. He removed his armor and began to lay down on her bed.
Sisera
Stand at the tent's entrance. If anyone comes looking for me, tell them I'm not here. And fetch your husband. I can't trust a woman with my safety.
Narrator
Jael bowed her head. She covered him with a woven rug for warmth, exited the tent, and remained at the entrance. The storm clouds rushed over her, and the thunder boomed once again. A single raindrop fell from the sky, landing directly in front of her. She looked down. Where it had fallen, beside the drop in the dirt, was a hammer and tent peg. As a woman, Jael had become very adept at pitching tents. It was her primary job. When moving locations, she knew the exact angle and force it took to break the hardened earth. It was at that moment when an idea struck her like lightning. Jael picked up the hammer and peg and stared down at them. Her heart began to pound heavily. She felt a surge of complete clarity. She knew what had to be done.
Podcast Host
What force will it take to break the hardened earth?
Narrator
Jael looked around for her husband, but he was nowhere to be seen. She peeked in through the tent to see Siserar fast asleep. Silently, like a lioness stalking her prey, she inched her way forward. She knelt down and placed the tent peg near the temple of Siserar's head. She angled the peg perfectly, raised the hammer above her head, and swung down violently. With a single swing, like a bomb with a bolt of lightning, the peg went straight through Siserar's head and drove into the floor. With such a small and insignificant object, God slayed the enemy. There was no dignity, no fanfare and no speech. It was silent and quick. The Lord handed Sisera over to be slain by the hand of a woman. Berach and Deborah finally made their way to the home of Heber. He was still repairing his cart when he saw the armed duo approach with blood soaked armor. He jumped at the sight of them and raised his hands. Please don't hurt me. Take whatever you'd like. We are looking for Cesair, the commander of Jabin's army.
Sisera
We know you are a friend of the King. Where is he?
Narrator
I swear I haven't seen him. Leave me alone. Deborah tilted her head as she looked at Heber.
Barak
Where is your wife?
Podcast Host
Here.
Narrator
Jael approached with a bloody hammer in her hand. She tilted her chin up and grinned.
Podcast Host
Come, I will show you the man you are seeking.
Narrator
Deborah nodded and left with her. Berach followed. He betailed them. Confused, Jael led them to her tent. She opened up the flap and asked,
Podcast Host
is this your man?
Narrator
There, lying in a pool of his own blood was Sisera. The tent peg was securely lodged in his temple, keeping his head pegged into the ground. Heba gasped in disgust while Deborah put her arm around Jael. She leaned over and whispered in her ear, well done. Berach stepped forward and knelt down. Scanning Siserar's body. He finally remembered the words of Deborah. The Lord had delivered Sisera into the hands of a woman, just not the woman he expected. On that day, God subdued Jabin, the King of Canaan, by before the people of Israel and the hand of the people of Israel pressed harder and harder against Jabin, the King of Canaan, until they destroyed him completely. The people were free once again and remained under the woman of strength. Deborah and Barak sang a song that day, a hymn to the Lord and a call for strength.
Production Announcer
This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellavager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Caltefianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.
Coldwater Creek Advertiser
You know what quality feels like. You can see it in the way a fabric moves, recognize it in a flawless fit, and appreciate it in the details that make our styles unique. It's the standard Cold Water Creek has honored for over 40 years, derived from a rich Mountain west heritage and designed for today in styles that are distinctively Coldwater Creek. For a wardrobe you can count on season after season, visit coldwatercreek.com, shop new arrivals and save 15% on purchases $75 or more with code iHeart.
Ryan Seacrest
It's tax season, and by now we're all a bit tired of numbers. But here's an important one you need to hear $16 billion. That's how much money in refunds the IRS flagged for possible identity fraud. But it's not all grim news. LifeLock monitors millions of data points per second and alerts you to threats you could easily miss on your own. If your identity is stolen, they'll fix it. Guaranteed. Save up to 40% your first year. Visit lifelock.com iheart Terms apply ever wonder
Reynolds Kitchens Advertiser
how to make hosting look effortless? Here's a secret Getting ahead of the mess with new Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper Just lightly wet the counter beforehand so the paper grips and stays in place. Then lay down the Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper so drips and spills stay on the paper, not all over your kitchen counter. You can roll out dough, prep a party spread, or cook alongside family. When you're done, cleanup is as simple as lifting the paper and revealing that clean counter underneath. Effortless. You can use it for cooking and baking, prep and even crafting, especially when you need extra working space. Because when the mess is already handled, you can focus on what matters the food, the people and the moment. It may look effortless, but now you know it's Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper. Take a tip from me. Wet it, set it, prep it. Done. Make it easy. Make it with Reynolds Kitchens countertop prep paper, available now in the Reynolds Wrap aisle and Walmart.
Ryan Seacrest
Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. Take care of yourself this spring with great savings on all your favorite wellness brands. Now through April 28th. Save $5 when you buy three or more participating wellness items. Shop in store or online for products like like Centrum Silver, Nexium, 24Hour, Tums Ultra Strength or Smoothies tablets and Flonase spray. And save $5 when you buy three or more. Get these deals before they're gone. Offer ends April 28th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.
Bethany Frankel
This is Bethany Frankel from Just be with Bethany Frankel. Most dog food is marketing, not nutrition. That is why Biggie and Smalls eat just food for dogs. Real 100 human grade food with ingredients I actually recogn. And yes, I do see the difference. Better digestion, healthier skin, more energy. Dogs that feel better. My babies, if you've been on the fence about switching, stop overthinking it. What's more important than your furry babies and their health? Go to justfoodfordogs.com right now and get 50% off your first box. No code needed. Just try it.
Podcast Host
This is an I Heart podcast.
Cindy Crawford
Guaranteed human.
Podcast: The Chosen People
Host: Pray.com
Date: April 1, 2026
This episode of The Chosen People revisits the biblical story of Deborah, Israel’s judge and prophetess, focusing on her role as a transformative leader and a symbol of strength. Through vivid narration and dramatization, the episode brings to life the dramatic battle against Sisera and the pivotal role of two women, Deborah and Jael, in Israel’s deliverance from tyranny. It explores themes of divine strength, faith under pressure, and the surprising ways God brings victory, challenging expectations of heroism and leadership.
“Rise, you men of Israel! Up. Arise, for this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Do not fear them. Does not the Lord go before you? Fight not for victory, but from it. You are the chosen people. Step into your destiny.”
— Deborah (Barak, 09:15)
“With such a small and insignificant object, God slayed the enemy. There was no dignity, no fanfare, and no speech. It was silent and quick. The Lord handed Sisera over to be slain by the hand of a woman.”
— Narrator (23:17)
The episode maintains a rich, immersive storytelling mode, blending dramatized dialogue with epic, almost poetic narration. Characters speak in passionate, resolute tones—filled with biblical echoes—while the narration adds gravitas and psychological depth, especially in exploring Deborah’s faith and Barak’s anxieties.
Deborah Part II: The Woman of Strength masterfully retells the tale of Deborah and Jael, celebrating strength born of faith and the unexpected vessels God chooses. Drawing from the power of narrative storytelling, the episode invites listeners to reflect on the nature of leadership, the courage to stand in God’s strength, and the extraordinary impact of ordinary obedience. Even for those unfamiliar with the biblical account, this episode offers an unforgettable portrait of character, courage, and divine justice.