Jephthah, a significant figure in the Book of Judges, is remembered for his role as a judge and leader of Israel during a tumultuous period. His account is primarily found in Judges 11-12. Jephthah was the son of Gilead and a prostitute, which led to his rejection by his half-brothers and his subsequent life in the land of Tob, where he gathered a group of adventurers around him (Judges 11:1-3).

Despite his outcast status, Jephthah's reputation as a mighty warrior became known, and when the Ammonites waged war against Israel, the elders of Gilead turned to him for leadership. They sought his help to deliver them from their oppressors, promising to make him their head if he succeeded (Judges 11:4-6). Jephthah agreed, but only after securing their oath before the LORD at Mizpah, ensuring that their promise would be binding (Judges 11:9-11).

Jephthah's leadership was marked by his diplomatic approach and his reliance on God. Before engaging in battle, he attempted to resolve the conflict with the Ammonites through negotiation, sending messengers to the king of Ammon to argue Israel's right to the land based on historical and theological grounds (Judges 11:12-27). However, the king of Ammon ignored Jephthah's message, leading to inevitable conflict.

Empowered by the Spirit of the LORD, Jephthah led Israel to victory over the Ammonites (Judges 11:29-33). This victory, however, was overshadowed by a tragic vow he made to the LORD, promising to offer as a burnt offering whatever came out of the doors of his house to meet him upon his return if he was victorious. His only child, a daughter, was the first to greet him, leading to a fulfillment of his vow that has been the subject of much debate and interpretation (Judges 11:30-40).

Jephthah's tenure as a judge lasted six years, during which he continued to lead Israel. His leadership was further tested by internal conflict with the tribe of Ephraim, who felt slighted for not being called to fight against the Ammonites. This dispute led to a battle in which Jephthah's forces defeated the Ephraimites, resulting in significant casualties (Judges 12:1-6).

Jephthah's account is a complex narrative of faith, leadership, and the consequences of rash vows. His life reflects the challenges of leadership in a time when "there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). Despite his flaws, Jephthah is listed among the faithful in Hebrews 11:32, highlighting his role in God's plan for Israel during the period of the judges.