### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yiphtâch**, represented by `{{H3316}}`, means **he will open** and refers primarily to **Jephthah**, an Israelite judge. It appears **30 times** across **26 unique verses**. While overwhelmingly associated with the man Jephthah, a Gileadite warrior, the name also identifies a place in Palestine [[Joshua 15:43]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3316}}` is central to the account of Jephthah in the book of Judges. He is introduced as a "mighty man of valour" `{{H1368}}``{{H2428}}` but also as the "son of an harlot" [[Judges 11:1]]. Because of his parentage, his brethren thrust him out of his father's house ([[Judges 11:2]], 7). He fled and dwelt in the land of Tob [[Judges 11:3]]. Later, when the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead sought Jephthah out, asking him to be their captain `{{H7101}}` [[Judges 11:6]]. After securing their promise that he would be their head `{{H7218}}`, the Spirit `{{H7307}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` came upon Jephthah, and he led Israel to victory ([[Judges 11:29]], 32). His story is also marked by a tragic vow `{{H5088}}` concerning his only daughter ([[Judges 11:30]], 34) and a later conflict with the men of Ephraim [[Judges 12:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context to the life and role of Jephthah:
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (warrior): Jephthah is introduced as a "mighty man" [[Judges 11:1]], a title defined by this word. It denotes a powerful warrior or champion, and is also used to describe God as mighty and terrible [[Deuteronomy 10:17]].
* `{{H1644}}` **gârash** (to drive out from a possession): This action is central to Jephthah’s early life, as his brothers "expel" him [[Judges 11:7]]. The term signifies a forceful removal, such as when God casts the heathen out of the land [[Psalms 80:8]].
* `{{H5088}}` **neder** (vow): The most dramatic part of Jephthah's narrative revolves around the "vow" he makes to the LORD [[Judges 11:30]]. This term refers to a sacred promise made to God, which scripture commands must be paid [[Deuteronomy 23:21]].
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): This word defines Jephthah’s primary function in Israel after his victory, as he "judged" the nation for six years [[Judges 12:7]]. It signifies not only rendering legal decisions but also the act of ruling and governing God's people [[1 Kings 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3316}}` is significant, illustrating several key principles.
* **Leadership from Rejection:** God raises Jephthah, an outcast, to a position of leadership. He was expelled from his father's house `{{H1}}``{{H1004}}` [[Judges 11:7]] and was the son `{{H1121}}` of a harlot `{{H802}}` [[Judges 11:1]], yet the elders `{{H2205}}` of Gilead turned to him in their distress `{{H6887}}` [[Judges 11:8]].
* **Empowerment by the Spirit:** Jephthah’s ability to lead and conquer was not his own, but a direct result of divine anointing. The scripture states, "Then the Spirit `{{H7307}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` came upon Jephthah" just before he went to war against Ammon `{{H5983}}` [[Judges 11:29]].
* **Instrument of Divine Deliverance:** Despite his flawed background and tragic choices, Jephthah is remembered as an instrument of God's salvation. Samuel `{{H8050}}` lists him among the leaders whom the LORD sent to deliver `{{H5337}}` Israel from its enemies `{{H341}}`, so that they could dwell `{{H3427}}` in safety `{{H983}}` [[1 Samuel 12:11]].
* **The Gravity of a Vow:** The narrative highlights the solemnity of making a vow to God. Jephthah makes a rash vow `{{H5087}}` [[Judges 11:30]] and is met by his only child `{{H3173}}`, showing the grave consequences of words uttered before the LORD. The daughters `{{H1323}}` of Israel lamented this event yearly [[Judges 11:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3316}}` is more than just a name; it represents the story of a complex and pivotal figure in Israel's history. Jephthah, whose name means "he will open," was an outcast who became a mighty warrior and judge for his people. His life demonstrates God's tendency to use the rejected and marginalized to achieve His purposes, the necessity of the Spirit's empowerment for service, and the profound seriousness of vows made before the Lord.
TRV