Judges 11:40

that each year the young women of Israel go out for four days to lament the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite.

Study Bible

that each year
The phrase "that each year" indicates a recurring, annual event. In the Hebrew context, this suggests a ritual or tradition that was established and maintained over time. The regularity of this observance underscores its importance in the cultural and religious life of Israel. It reflects a communal memory and a commitment to remember significant events and individuals, which is a common theme throughout the Old Testament.

the young women of Israel
This phrase highlights the involvement of "the young women of Israel" in the observance. In ancient Israelite society, women often played crucial roles in religious and communal activities. The specific mention of young women suggests a rite of passage or a formative experience for them, emphasizing the importance of community and shared history in shaping identity and values.

would go out
The action "would go out" implies a deliberate and purposeful movement. This suggests that the young women left their usual surroundings to participate in this observance, indicating a pilgrimage or a journey with spiritual significance. It reflects the idea of stepping out of the ordinary to engage in a sacred act, a theme that resonates with the broader biblical narrative of seeking God through intentional acts of devotion.

for four days
The duration "for four days" signifies a period of time set apart for this observance. In biblical numerology, the number four often represents completeness or universality. This could imply that the lamentation was thorough and all-encompassing, allowing ample time for reflection, mourning, and perhaps even celebration of Jephthah's daughter's life and sacrifice.

to lament
The word "to lament" is central to understanding the purpose of this observance. In Hebrew, lamentation is a profound expression of grief and sorrow, often accompanied by ritualistic elements. This act of lamenting serves as a communal catharsis, allowing the people to express their collective grief and to honor the memory of Jephthah's daughter. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of vows and the seriousness with which they were regarded in ancient Israel.

the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite
This phrase identifies the focus of the lamentation: "the daughter of Jephthah the Gileadite." Jephthah, a judge of Israel, made a vow that led to his daughter's tragic fate. The mention of her lineage, "the Gileadite," situates the account within a specific tribal and familial context, emphasizing the personal and communal dimensions of the narrative. Her account serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of faith, duty, and sacrifice, and it invites reflection on the nature of vows and the cost of fulfilling them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jephthah
A judge of Israel, known for his vow to God that led to the sacrifice of his daughter. He was a Gileadite and a mighty warrior.

2. Jephthah's Daughter
The unnamed daughter of Jephthah, who became the subject of lamentation due to her father's vow. Her account highlights themes of sacrifice and obedience.

3. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, associated with Jephthah's family and leadership.

4. The Young Women of Israel
They annually commemorated Jephthah's daughter, indicating a cultural practice of remembrance and mourning.

5. The Lamentation Event
An annual four-day event where the young women of Israel would lament Jephthah's daughter, reflecting on themes of loss and sacrifice.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Vows
Vows made to God are serious and should not be taken lightly. Consider the implications and seek God's guidance before making commitments.

The Cost of Rash Decisions
Jephthah's account warns against making hasty promises without considering the consequences. Seek wisdom and counsel in decision-making.

The Role of Remembrance
The annual lamentation serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from past events. Reflect on how God has worked through difficult circumstances.

The Value of Sacrifice
While Jephthah's sacrifice was tragic, it points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Consider how we are called to live sacrificially for others.

Community Support in Grief
The communal lamentation shows the importance of supporting one another in times of grief and loss. Engage in community and offer support to those who mourn.

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 us to consider the cost of our decisions and actions?

3. In what ways can the annual lamentation of Jephthah's daughter inspire us to remember and learn from our own past experiences?

4. How does the concept of sacrifice in Jephthah's account point us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

5. What role does community play in helping us navigate grief and loss, as seen in the lamentation of Jephthah's daughter? How can we apply this in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22
The account of Abraham and Isaac, where God tests Abraham's faith. This connection highlights themes of sacrifice and obedience to God.

1 Samuel 1
The account of Hannah, who dedicates her son Samuel to God. This reflects themes of vows and dedication to the Lord.

Psalm 56:8
Speaks of God recording our tears, which connects to the lamentation and mourning of Jephthah's daughter.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Mentions Jephthah among the heroes of faith, emphasizing his role despite the tragic outcome of his vow.