of Hebrew origin (יִפְתָּח); Jephthaë (i.e. Jiphtach), an Israelite:--Jephthah.
Transliteration:Iephtháe
Pronunciation:ee-ef-thah'-eh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word Ἰεφθάε (Iephtháe), Strong's `{{G2422}}`, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name יִפְתָּח (Yiphtach), Strong's `{{H3316}}`. The Hebrew root from which the name derives is פָּתַח (patach), Strong's `{{H6605}}`, which means "to open," "to unclose," or "to set free." Therefore, the name "Jephthah" is commonly understood to mean "He opens," "He will open," or "God opens." This etymological meaning carries a connotation of divine action, perhaps referring to deliverance, breakthrough, or the initiation of something new. In the context of the biblical figure, this name takes on a poignant and often ironic significance given the circumstances of his life and his pivotal role as a deliverer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek term Ἰεφθάε (Iephtháe) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Hebrews 11:32]]. In this pivotal chapter, often referred to as the "hall of faith," the author enumerates a series of biblical figures who exemplify faith. Jephthah is listed alongside other Old Testament heroes such as Gideon, Barak, Samson, David, and Samuel. The passage states that these individuals, "through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions" [[Hebrews 11:33]].
Jephthah's story is detailed in the Old Testament books of [[Judges 11]] and [[Judges 12]]. He was a Gileadite, the son of a prostitute, and was cast out by his half-brothers. Despite his outcast status, when the Ammonites oppressed Israel, the elders of Gilead sought him out to lead their army. Jephthah agreed, but only after they made him their head and commander. His faith is evident in his negotiations with the Ammonites and his reliance on the Lord for victory, as expressed in his declaration, "The Lord, the Judge, decide this day between the people of Israel and the people of Ammon" [[Judges 11:27]]. However, his narrative is famously complicated by a rash vow he made to the Lord: "If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace from the Ammonites shall be the Lord's, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering" [[Judges 11:30-31]]. Tragically, his only daughter was the first to meet him upon his victorious return, leading to a profound ethical dilemma and her eventual sacrifice. The inclusion of Jephthah in Hebrews 11 emphasizes that his faith, particularly in leading Israel to victory, was commendable in God's eyes, despite the severe moral and personal tragedy that accompanied his leadership. The focus is on his trust in God's power to deliver, rather than a full endorsement of his actions or understanding of the law.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Origin:** The direct Hebrew counterpart is יִפְתָּח (Yiphtach), Strong's `{{H3316}}`. Understanding its root, פָּתַח (patach), Strong's `{{H6605}}`, meaning "to open," provides the etymological foundation for the name.
* **Judges of Israel:** Jephthah was one of the charismatic leaders raised up by God to deliver Israel during the period of the Judges, a time characterized by spiritual decline, foreign oppression, and cyclical deliverance. His story exemplifies the often-flawed human instruments God uses for His purposes. Other judges, like Gideon and Samson, also appear in [[Hebrews 11:32]].
* **Vows:** The concept of vows, their solemnity, and their potential for disaster, is a significant theme in Jephthah's narrative. Biblical law provided for vows ([[Numbers 30:2]], [[Deuteronomy 23:21-23]]), but also warned against rashness ([[Ecclesiastes 5:4-6]]). Jephthah's vow highlights the dangers of ill-conceived pledges made to God.
* **Deliverance/Salvation:** As a judge, Jephthah's primary role was to deliver Israel from its oppressors. This aligns with the meaning of his name, "He opens," implying that God "opened" the way for Israel's salvation through him.
### Theological Significance
Jephthah's inclusion in the esteemed list of faith heroes in [[Hebrews 11]] presents a profound theological insight: God acknowledges and commends faith even in individuals whose lives are marked by significant moral complexities and tragic errors. This does not condone Jephthah's rash vow or the horrific outcome for his daughter, but rather highlights that God's assessment of faith can transcend human imperfection and the consequences of poor judgment. The author of Hebrews focuses on Jephthah's faith in stepping forward to lead Israel and trusting God for victory, underscoring that God can use flawed instruments to achieve His sovereign purposes.
The name "Jephthah" itself, meaning "He opens," can be seen as a theological statement about God's nature as the one who breaks through, delivers, and opens paths where there seemed to be none. Despite Jephthah's personal failings, God used him to "open" the way for Israel's freedom from Ammonite oppression. His story serves as a cautionary tale regarding the dangers of rash vows and a lack of discernment, while simultaneously affirming the power and efficacy of faith in God's redemptive plan. It teaches that true faith, though imperfectly exercised, can be recognized by God and employed for the advancement of His kingdom.
### Summary
The Greek word Ἰεφθάε (Iephtháe), Strong's `{{G2422}}`, is a transliteration of the Hebrew name יִפְתָּח (Yiphtach), meaning "He opens" or "God opens." It refers to Jephthah, one of the Judges of Israel, whose story is recounted in [[Judges 11-12]]. Despite the profound tragedy and moral ambiguity surrounding his rash vow and the sacrifice of his daughter, Jephthah is notably included in the "hall of faith" in [[Hebrews 11:32]]. This inclusion highlights that his faith in God's power to deliver Israel from the Ammonites was commendable. The theological significance lies in God's ability to use and honor the faith of imperfect individuals to accomplish His divine purposes, while also serving as a cautionary example regarding the consequences of misguided actions. The etymology of his name, "He opens," subtly points to God's role as the ultimate deliverer who breaks through oppression.
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