King James Version
What Does Judges 11:4 Mean?
“And it came to pass in process of time, that the children of Ammon made war against Israel. in process: Heb. after days”
Context
2
And Gilead's wife bare him sons; and his wife's sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou art the son of a strange woman.
3
Then Jephthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob: and there were gathered vain men to Jephthah, and went out with him. from: Heb. from the face
4
And it came to pass in process of time, that the children of Ammon made war against Israel. in process: Heb. after days
5
And it was so, that when the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead went to fetch Jephthah out of the land of Tob:
6
And they said unto Jephthah, Come, and be our captain, that we may fight with the children of Ammon.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **In process of time.**—Marg., *after days, *implying the time between Jephthah’s expulsion in early youth and his mature manhood.
**The children of Ammon made war.**—The fact that this is introduced as a new circumstance, though it has been fully related in Judges 10:8-9; Judges 10:17-18, probably arises from the use of some new, and probably Gileadite, document in these two chapters.
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 11:4 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 11:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge