Positive Gender Identity for Women in Leadership: Examining and Embracing Experiential Learning through Deborah as a Mother in Israel

Deborah was a prophetess and judge in ancient Israel, known for her wisdom, courage, and ability to lead. Deborah’s story as described in narrative in chapter four and celebrated in poetry in chapter five in the Book of Judges provides lessons on the intersection of gender, leadership, and motherhood; for in 5:7, Deborah identified herself as a “mother in Israel.” By exploring the story of Deborah through the lens of experiential learning, valuable insight into women’s leadership is gained along with a deeper understanding of how women can thrive in leadership positions while embracing their gender identity. Conversely, examining experiential learning through the story of Deborah as a mother in Israel allows for the recognition of positive gender identity for women in leadership. The experiential learning within and gleaned from Deborah’s leadership acumen accounts supports that women can excel in leadership while staying true to their gender characteristics.