Etymology and Meaning: The name "Jiphtah" is derived from the Hebrew root "פָּתַח" (patah), meaning "to open" or "to set free." It is often interpreted as "He opens" or "He will set free."

Biblical References: Jiphtah is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. It is identified as a town within the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The reference to Jiphtah can be found in Joshua 15:43, where it is listed among the cities in the Shephelah, or the lowland region of Judah: "Jiphtah, Ashnah, Nezib" .

Geographical Context: The Shephelah is a region of rolling hills situated between the coastal plain and the central highlands of Judah. This area was significant in biblical times for its strategic location and fertile land, making it a valuable asset for the tribe of Judah. Jiphtah, as part of this region, would have been involved in agricultural activities and possibly served as a defensive outpost against incursions from neighboring territories.

Historical and Cultural Significance: While Jiphtah itself is not extensively detailed in biblical narratives, its inclusion in the list of cities within Judah's inheritance underscores the importance of territorial boundaries and tribal identities in ancient Israel. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel was a fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, and each city and region held significance for the identity and sustenance of the tribes.

Theological Implications: The mention of Jiphtah, like other cities in the tribal allotments, reflects the faithfulness of God in delivering the Promised Land to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where land inheritance was both a divine gift and a responsibility for the Israelites to uphold God's laws and worship Him exclusively.

Archaeological Insights: While specific archaeological evidence directly identifying Jiphtah has not been conclusively discovered, the broader region of the Shephelah has been the subject of extensive archaeological study. Excavations in this area have revealed insights into the daily life, fortifications, and agricultural practices of ancient Judah, providing a backdrop for understanding the context in which Jiphtah existed.

Related Biblical Themes: The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, emphasizing God's provision and the importance of obedience to His commands. The cities and regions mentioned in these allotments often serve as settings for significant biblical events and narratives, highlighting the interconnectedness of geography, history, and theology in the biblical text.

Cross-References: For further study, see the broader context of the tribal allotments in Joshua 15, as well as related passages in the Pentateuch that discuss the promises of land to the patriarchs (e.g., Genesis 12:7, Exodus 23:31). Additionally, consider the role of the Shephelah in the historical narratives of the Judges and the monarchy, where it often served as a battleground between Israel and its neighbors.Jiphtah

opening

Jiphtah

(whom God sets free), one of the cities of Judah in the maritime lowland, or Shefelah. (Joshua 15:43) It has not yet been met with.

JIPHTAH

jif'-ta (yiphtach).

See IPHTAH.

3316. Yiphtach -- "He opens," a Gileadite, also a city of Judah
... Jephthah, Jiphtah. From pathach; he will open; Jiphtach, an Israelite; also a place
in Palestine -- Jephthah, Jiphtah. see HEBREW pathach. 3315, 3316. ...
/hebrew/3316.htm - 6kJiphtah (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia JIPHTAH. jif'-ta (yiphtach). See IPHTAH. ...Jiphtah
(1 Occurrence). Joshua 15:43 And Jiphtah, and Ashnah, and Nezib, (KJV WBS YLT). ...
/j/jiphtah.htm - 6k

Jiphdeiah (1 Occurrence)

/j/jiphdeiah.htm - 6k

Jiphthah (1 Occurrence)

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Iphtahel (2 Occurrences)
... IPHTAH-EL. if'-ta-el (yiphtach-'el; the King James Version Jiphtah-el): The valley
of Iphtah-el lay on the North border of Zebulun (Joshua 19:14, 27). ...
/i/iphtahel.htm - 7k

Iphtah-el (2 Occurrences)
... IPHTAH-EL. if'-ta-el (yiphtach-'el; the King James Version Jiphtah-el): The valley
of Iphtah-el lay on the North border of Zebulun (Joshua 19:14, 27). ...
/i/iphtah-el.htm - 7k

Iphtah (3 Occurrences)
... IPHTAH. if'-ta (yiphtach; the King James Version Jiphtah): A town in the Shephelah
of Judah, named with Libnab, Ether and Ashan (Joshua 15:43). ...
/i/iphtah.htm - 7k

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