St. Deborah was one of the few female judges in Israel. Legend has it that she would sit beneath a palm tree and issue her judgments. She also fought in the war of Israel and is mentioned several times in the bible, most notably in the book of judges. Deborah’s unconventional life made her one of the most memorable of all saints. Her legend is told of in Judges 4:4-5:31.
She is known as the Patron Saint of bees and beekeepers due to the fact that her name means bee in Hebrew. She is depicted on most medals as looking solemnly down at the cross. Her visions of God led her to live a pious life and to protect Israel itself against harm. It’s her courage and sound judgment that makes us remember her and turn to her for protection. Her feast day is designated as November 1st.
