King James Version
What Does Judges 11:30 Mean?
“And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands,”
Context
28
Howbeit the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him.
29
Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed over Gilead, and Manasseh, and passed over Mizpeh of Gilead, and from Mizpeh of Gilead he passed over unto the children of Ammon.
30
And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands,
31
Then it shall be, that whatsoever cometh forth of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall surely be the LORD'S, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. whatsoever: Heb. that which cometh forth, which shall come forth and: or, or I will offer it, etc
32
So Jephthah passed over unto the children of Ammon to fight against them; and the LORD delivered them into his hands.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(30) **Jephthah vowed a vow.**—This was a practice among all ancient nations, but specially among the Jews (Genesis 28:20-22; 1Samuel 1:11; 2Samuel 15:8; Psalm 66:13).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Judges 11:30 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Judges 11:30
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge