Judges 11:37

She also said to her father, "Let me do this one thing: Let me wander for two months through the mountains with my friends and mourn my virginity."

Study Bible

But grant me this one request
This phrase begins with a plea, indicating a deep desire or need. The Hebrew word for "request" here is "she'elah," which implies a petition or earnest plea. In the context of Judges 11, Jephthah's daughter is making a heartfelt request to her father. This reflects the human condition of seeking mercy or favor, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture. It reminds us of the importance of approaching God with our requests, trusting in His wisdom and grace.

she said
The phrase "she said" indicates direct speech, emphasizing the personal nature of the communication. In Hebrew narrative, direct speech often highlights significant moments. Here, it underscores the gravity of the daughter's situation and her courage in speaking up. It is a reminder of the power of words and the importance of voicing our needs and concerns, both to God and to others.

Give me two months to roam the hills
The request for "two months" suggests a specific, limited time for a particular purpose. The Hebrew word for "months" is "chodesh," which also means "new moon," indicating a cycle of time. The act of roaming the hills signifies a period of reflection and mourning. In ancient Israel, the hills were often places of solitude and contemplation. This request highlights the human need for time to process emotions and seek understanding, especially in times of distress.

and weep with my friends
The act of weeping "with my friends" indicates communal mourning. In Hebrew culture, mourning was often a shared experience, reflecting the interconnectedness of community life. The word "weep" in Hebrew is "bakah," which conveys deep sorrow. This phrase underscores the importance of community support in times of grief and the biblical principle of bearing one another's burdens.

because I will never marry
This phrase reveals the tragic outcome of the vow made by Jephthah. The Hebrew word for "marry" is "ishah," which also means "woman" or "wife." The daughter's acknowledgment of her fate highlights the cost of rash vows and the impact of decisions on future generations. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of wisdom and discernment in making commitments, as well as the value of life and relationships in God's design.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah's Daughter
The unnamed daughter of Jephthah, who becomes the central figure in this passage. She is known for her obedience and acceptance of her father's vow.

2. Jephthah
A judge of Israel who made a vow to the Lord that led to the sacrifice of his daughter. His account is a complex mix of faith, leadership, and tragic consequences.

3. The Hills
The location where Jephthah's daughter requests to go and mourn. This setting symbolizes a place of solitude and reflection.

4. The Vow
Jephthah's vow to God, which he made before a battle, promising to sacrifice whatever came out of his house to greet him if he returned victorious.

5. The Friends
The companions of Jephthah's daughter who join her in mourning. They represent community and shared grief.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Vows
This passage underscores the seriousness of making vows to God. It teaches us to consider our words and promises carefully, understanding the potential consequences.

Obedience and Sacrifice
Jephthah's daughter exemplifies obedience and acceptance of her fate. Her account challenges us to consider our own willingness to submit to God's will, even when it involves personal sacrifice.

Community in Grief
The presence of her friends highlights the importance of community support during times of sorrow. It reminds us to be present for others in their times of need.

Reflection and Mourning
The two months in the hills symbolize a period of reflection and mourning. This teaches us the value of taking time to process grief and seek God's presence in solitude.

Faith Amidst Tragedy
Despite the tragic outcome, Jephthah's account is one of faith. It encourages us to trust in God's plan, even when we do not understand it fully.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jephthah's daughter's request to "roam the hills and weep" teach us about the importance of processing grief and seeking solitude with God?

2. How can we apply the lesson of being cautious with our vows and promises in our daily lives, especially in our commitments to God and others?

3. In what ways does the account of Jephthah's daughter challenge our understanding of obedience and sacrifice in our relationship with God?

4. How can we, as a community, better support those who are experiencing grief and loss, drawing from the example of Jephthah's daughter's friends?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation that required faith. How does Jephthah's account inspire you to trust in God's plan, even amidst uncertainty or tragedy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, which also involves a father facing the potential sacrifice of a child, highlighting themes of faith and obedience.

1 Samuel 1
Hannah's vow and dedication of Samuel to the Lord, showing another instance of a vow impacting a child's life.

Hebrews 11
Jephthah is mentioned in the "Faith Hall of Fame," which provides context for understanding his actions within the broader account of faith.