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 spent in the mountains, mourning her fate. The two-month period reflects a time of preparation and reflection, which is significant in biblical narratives. It parallels other instances in Scripture where time is set aside for mourning or preparation, such as the 40 days Moses spent on Mount Sinai.

she returned to her father
The return signifies obedience and submission to her father's vow, highlighting the cultural and familial expectations of the time. In ancient Israel, family honor and fulfilling vows were paramount, and her return underscores her acceptance of her fate. This act of returning also reflects the broader biblical theme of returning to one's roots or destiny, seen in stories like the Prodigal Son.

and he did to her as he had vowed
Jephthah's vow, made in Judges 11:30-31, was to offer whatever came out of his house as a burnt offering to the Lord. This phrase has been the subject of much debate, with interpretations ranging from literal sacrifice to lifelong dedication to temple service. The gravity of fulfilling vows is emphasized throughout Scripture, as seen in Ecclesiastes 5:4-5, which warns against making rash vows.

And she had never had relations with a man
This detail emphasizes her virginity, which in the cultural context of ancient Israel, was significant for a woman's identity and future. Virginity was often associated with purity and dedication to God, as seen in the Nazarite vow (Numbers 6). This aspect of her life also connects to the theme of sacrifice and dedication, paralleling the purity of offerings required by the Law.

So it has become a custom in Israel
The establishment of a custom indicates the lasting impact of this event on the community. It suggests a ritual or tradition that arose from this narrative, possibly involving the commemoration of Jephthah's daughter. This reflects the broader biblical theme of memorials and traditions that serve as reminders of significant events, similar to the Passover or the stones set up by Joshua in the Jordan River (Joshua 4:6-7).

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.