The answer is: Sisera

Jdg 5:28 - Slain by Jael with a tent peg he wasn't going to return

Imagine for a moment Sisera's mother, gazing out a window with bated breath, peering at the horizon for signs of her son. What a striking image this is! From Judges 5:28, we see this poignant moment filled with anticipation turning into despair, encapsulating countless universal themes of mourning and loss in just a few vivid lines.

In the art of storytelling, such reflections elevate ordinary accounts to resonate beyond their immediate context. Sisera was a commander of an oppressive army, and his downfall wasn't just about military retaliation—it became a profound symbol of justice and feminine strength. Jael’s decisive action has often stirred contemplation—she was a woman not only in a position of power but someone who redirected the fate of a nation. This echoes biblical themes of unexpected leaders and the often-overlooked roles women have played throughout scriptures.

Moreover, this narrative's counterpart appears multiple times in Biblical literature: the idea of waiting for a loved one to return is reiterated in various tales—like the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son, reflecting the deep human longing to see someone return home.

In Jewish tradition, the genesis of these stories serves to help communities reflect on justice, the nature of war, and the roles we each can play in standing against oppression, no matter the personal cost. So remember, while the story of Sisera ends at his mother’s sorrow, it also brings forth the triumph of liberation against cruelty and the resilience found in women’s courage throughout Biblical history.