Judges 11:38

"Go," he said. And he sent her away for two months. So she left with her friends and mourned her virginity upon the mountains.

Study Bible

Go
This word signifies a command or permission, indicating movement or action. In the context of Judges 11:38, Jephthah is granting his daughter the freedom to fulfill her request. The Hebrew root for "go" is "halak," which often implies a journey or a path to be taken. This reflects the spiritual journey of obedience and submission to God's will, even when it involves personal sacrifice.

he said
This phrase indicates the speaker, Jephthah, who is a judge of Israel. His words carry authority and reflect his role as a leader. Historically, judges were seen as deliverers and leaders appointed by God to guide Israel. Jephthah's speech is significant as it reveals his character and the weight of his vow to the Lord.

and sent her away
This action demonstrates Jephthah's compliance with his daughter's request. The Hebrew word "shalach" means to send forth or release. It implies a letting go, which can be seen as an act of faith and trust in God's plan. This moment is pivotal, as it shows Jephthah's willingness to honor his vow, despite the personal cost.

for two months
The specific time frame of two months is significant. In biblical terms, the number two often symbolizes confirmation or witness. This period allowed Jephthah's daughter to prepare spiritually and emotionally for the fulfillment of the vow. It also reflects the importance of time in processing and accepting God's will.

She and her friends
This phrase highlights the communal aspect of the event. The presence of her friends indicates support and solidarity. In ancient Israel, community played a crucial role in individual lives, providing strength and encouragement. This companionship underscores the importance of fellowship in times of trial and sacrifice.

went into the hills
The hills or mountains in biblical literature often symbolize places of encounter with God, reflection, and revelation. The Hebrew word "har" for hills suggests elevation, both physically and spiritually. This setting provides a backdrop for contemplation and communion with God, as Jephthah's daughter prepares for her destiny.

and wept
The act of weeping signifies deep sorrow and lamentation. In Hebrew, "bakah" means to weep or mourn. This emotional expression is a natural human response to impending loss and sacrifice. It reflects the gravity of the situation and the genuine heartache involved in fulfilling a vow to God.

because she would never marry
This phrase reveals the personal cost of Jephthah's vow. In ancient Israel, marriage and bearing children were seen as a woman's primary role and source of identity. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on family lineage and legacy. Her acceptance of this fate demonstrates profound faith and submission to God's will, serving as an inspiration for believers to prioritize spiritual commitments over personal desires.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel who made a vow to the Lord, which led to the events described in this passage. He is a central figure in this account.

2. Jephthah's Daughter
The unnamed daughter of Jephthah, who is the subject of his vow. Her response to her father's vow is significant in this passage.

3. The Mountains
The location where Jephthah's daughter and her friends went to mourn. This setting is symbolic of isolation and reflection.

4. Jephthah's Vow
The vow made by Jephthah to offer as a burnt offering whatever came out of his house to meet him if he returned victorious from battle.

5. The Friends
The companions of Jephthah's daughter who joined her in mourning. They represent community and support in times of distress.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Vows
Vows made to God are serious and binding. We must consider the implications and consequences before making promises to the Lord.

Faith and Obedience
Jephthah's account challenges us to reflect on our faith and obedience to God, even when it involves personal sacrifice.

Community Support
The presence of Jephthah's daughter's friends highlights the importance of community and support during times of trial and mourning.

Reflection and Mourning
The two months spent in the mountains symbolize a period of reflection and mourning, which can be a necessary part of processing difficult situations.

The Role of Women
This passage invites us to consider the roles and voices of women in biblical accounts, often highlighting their strength and resilience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jephthah's vow about the importance of considering the consequences of our promises to God?

2. How does the account of Jephthah's daughter challenge our understanding of faith and sacrifice in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we support others in our community who are going through times of mourning or distress, as Jephthah's daughter's friends did?

4. How does the theme of obedience in Judges 11:38 connect with other biblical accounts of faith, such as Abraham and Isaac or Hannah and Samuel?

5. What insights can we gain about the role and portrayal of women in the Bible from the account of Jephthah's daughter, and how can this inform our understanding of gender roles in our faith communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where Abraham is tested by God to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. This connection highlights themes of faith, sacrifice, and obedience.

1 Samuel 1
The account of Hannah, who made a vow to dedicate her son Samuel to the Lord. This illustrates the seriousness and consequences of vows made to God.

Psalm 15
This Psalm speaks about the character of those who may dwell with the Lord, including keeping oaths even when it hurts, which relates to Jephthah's situation.