Judges 11:39

After two months, she returned to her father, and he did to her as he had vowed. And she had never had relations with a man. So it has become a custom in Israel

Study Bible

After two months
This phrase indicates a specific period of time that Jephthah's daughter was given to mourn her fate. The two months symbolize a complete cycle of time for reflection and preparation. In the Hebrew context, the number two often signifies division or difference, which could reflect the separation between her desires and her destiny. Historically, this period allowed her to lament her virginity and the life she would not lead, emphasizing the gravity of vows made to God.

she returned to her father
The act of returning signifies obedience and submission to her father's authority and ultimately to God's will. In ancient Israelite culture, the family structure was patriarchal, and the father's word was law. Her return is a poignant moment of faithfulness and acceptance of her fate, reflecting the broader biblical theme of submission to divine authority.

and he did to her as he had vowed
This phrase is central to the narrative, highlighting the seriousness of vows made to God. The Hebrew root for "vowed" (נדר, nadar) underscores the binding nature of such promises. Jephthah's fulfillment of his vow, despite its tragic outcome, serves as a sobering reminder of the weight of our words and commitments before God. It also reflects the cultural and religious practices of the time, where vows were irrevocable and sacred.

And she was a virgin
This statement emphasizes her purity and the loss of potential motherhood, which was a significant aspect of a woman's identity and legacy in ancient Israel. The Hebrew term for virgin (בתולה, betulah) underscores her untouched state, which in this context, becomes a symbol of sacrifice and dedication to God. Her virginity is a poignant reminder of the cost of Jephthah's vow and the personal sacrifice involved.

So it became a custom in Israel
This concluding phrase indicates that the event had a lasting impact on the cultural and religious practices of Israel. The Hebrew word for "custom" (חוק, choq) suggests a statute or ordinance, implying that this account was memorialized as a cautionary tale. It serves as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful and deliberate vows, and the communal memory of Jephthah's daughter became a part of Israel's spiritual heritage, teaching future generations about the gravity of promises made to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel, known for his rash vow to God, which led to a tragic fulfillment involving his daughter.

2. Jephthah's Daughter
The unnamed daughter of Jephthah, who becomes the subject of her father's vow and its fulfillment.

3. Mizpah
The place where Jephthah lived and where he made his vow to the Lord.

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

5. Israel
The nation that Jephthah was leading and delivering from the oppression of the Ammonites.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Words
Jephthah's account teaches us the importance of considering our words carefully, especially when making promises to God.

The Consequences of Rash Decisions
This passage highlights the potential consequences of making hasty decisions without seeking God's guidance.

Faith and Obedience
Despite the tragic outcome, Jephthah's inclusion in Hebrews 11 reminds us that God can use imperfect people for His purposes.

Cultural Practices and God's Will
The establishment of a custom in Israel from this event shows how cultural practices can emerge from significant events, but they must always be weighed against God's will and commandments.

The Role of Women in Scripture
Jephthah's daughter, though unnamed, plays a significant role in this account, reminding us of the often-overlooked contributions of women in biblical history.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jephthah's vow about the importance of seeking God's guidance before making commitments?

2. How does the account of Jephthah's daughter challenge or affirm your understanding of faith and obedience?

3. In what ways does this passage encourage us to reflect on the vows or promises we make in our own lives?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Jephthah's account to avoid making rash decisions in our spiritual journey?

5. What other biblical accounts or teachings can help us understand the balance between cultural practices and God's commandments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God intervenes to stop Abraham from sacrificing his son, contrasting with Jephthah's situation.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5
Discusses the importance of fulfilling vows made to God, highlighting the seriousness of making vows.

Matthew 5:33-37
Jesus teaches about making oaths, emphasizing the importance of honesty and the dangers of making rash promises.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Jephthah is mentioned among the heroes of faith, showing that despite his flaws, he was used by God for His purposes.