The answer is: Deborah

Jdg 5:7

Deborah, a standout figure among the leaders of Israel, truly redefined what it meant to be a judge in ancient times. By referring to herself as “a mother in Israel,” she embraced a role that was both nurturing and authoritative. This title indicates not just her leadership but also the protective and guiding nature she had over her people. Imagine a courtroom full of armed warriors, where Deborah, the only female judge, stands at the forefront!

What’s particularly compelling about Deborah is mission-driven life. As a prophetess, she operated at the intersection of civil and spiritual matters. Her leadership is featured in Judges 4 and 5, where she orchestrates a decisive victory against Sisera, a commander from the opposing forces. Foreshadowing a monumental shift, Deborah instructs Barak to muster an army against Sisera—a mother's nurturing wisdom empowering others to confront challenges.

A fun bit of trivia: Deborah's story is unique not only because of her gender but also because it is one of the few occasions in judges narratives where individual accountability and clarity of divine instruction shine. And let’s not forget Jael, another remarkable woman in her story, who famously delivers the final blow to Sisera. Their combined strength and courage in a patriarchal setting unfolds a biblical narrative about shared leadership and empowerment. What a remarkable testimony of how collaboration can lead to salvation—even before the 'sharing is caring' mantra existed!