It is an ancient Oriental practice common to all Bedouins that whoever has eaten or drunk anything in the tent is received into the peace of the house. A mortal enemy could rest securely in the tent of his adversary if he had drunk with him. Sisera’s request showed him to be cautious and wary. Though exhausted, he dared not sleep until he had some guarantee of Jael’s intentions. When Jael opened the goatskin and gave him milk to drink, the army commander felt he could safely yield to sleep.