Biblical Context:
The narrative of the elders of Gilead seeking Jephthah's help is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 11:1-11. This account is set during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by a cyclical pattern of Israel's disobedience, oppression by foreign powers, cries for deliverance, and subsequent deliverance by judges raised by God.

Historical Background:
Gilead was a region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and rugged terrain. It was inhabited by the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. During the time of Jephthah, the Israelites in Gilead faced oppression from the Ammonites, who claimed that Israel had taken their land during the Exodus.

Jephthah's Background:
Jephthah, the son of Gilead, was a mighty warrior but was ostracized by his family because he was the son of a prostitute. As a result, he fled to the land of Tob, where he gathered a group of adventurers and lived as a leader of a band of outlaws. Despite his rejection, Jephthah's reputation as a valiant warrior remained known.

The Elders' Appeal:
When the Ammonites waged war against Israel, the elders of Gilead found themselves in dire need of a capable leader. In their desperation, they turned to Jephthah, acknowledging his prowess in battle. This act of seeking Jephthah's help is recorded in Judges 11:5-6 : "And when the Ammonites made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah from the land of Tob. 'Come,' they said, 'be our commander, so that we can fight against the Ammonites.'"

Jephthah's Response:
Jephthah's initial response was one of skepticism and reproach. He reminded the elders of their previous rejection, as seen in Judges 11:7 : "Jephthah replied to the elders of Gilead, 'Did you not hate me and expel me from my father’s house? Why then have you come to me now, when you are in distress?'" Despite his grievances, Jephthah was willing to negotiate terms for his leadership.

Negotiation and Leadership:
The elders of Gilead assured Jephthah that if he led them to victory against the Ammonites, he would become the head of all the inhabitants of Gilead. This promise is captured in Judges 11:8-9 : "The elders of Gilead said to Jephthah, 'Nevertheless, we now turn to you. Come with us, fight the Ammonites, and you will be head over all of us who live in Gilead.' Jephthah answered, 'If you take me back to fight the Ammonites and the LORD gives them to me, will I really be your head?'"

Covenant Before the LORD:
The elders agreed to Jephthah's terms, and a covenant was made before the LORD at Mizpah, as stated in Judges 11:10-11 : "The elders of Gilead said to Jephthah, 'The LORD is our witness; we will certainly do as you say.' So Jephthah went with the elders of Gilead, and the people made him their head and commander. And Jephthah repeated all his words before the LORD in Mizpah."

Theological Significance:
This account highlights themes of redemption, leadership, and divine providence. Despite Jephthah's marginalized status, God used him as an instrument of deliverance for His people. The elders' appeal to Jephthah underscores the importance of recognizing God's chosen leaders, even when they come from unexpected backgrounds. The covenant made before the LORD emphasizes the seriousness of vows and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty in the affairs of His people.