Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 11:3. It’s a really important story about a crisis and how it led to a difficult situation. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes a desperate escape and a large group of people fleeing after a terrible event. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening: “Then Jephthah fled from his brethren…” – This means Jephthah, a leader, decided to leave the group of people he was leading. He chose to go elsewhere. “…and dwelt in the land of Tob…” – He moved to a place called “Tob.” It's a small town or settlement in Israel. “And there were gathered vain men to Jephthah, and went out with him.” - This is the key part. "Vain men" refers to a group of people who were unwilling to help Jephthah. They were likely scared, perhaps because of the threat posed by the enemy. They essentially left with him – they didn’t want to participate in the defense or relief efforts. So, what's the big takeaway? This story is a bit unsettling because it shows how fear and desperation can lead people to make difficult choices. It highlights that sometimes, even when we try our best to help others, we might not be able to do so effectively. It’s also a reminder that sometimes, it's better to focus on your own safety rather than trying to solve the problem for everyone. Context is important: This story happened during a time when the Israelites were facing a major threat from the Philistines. Jephthah was leading them in battle, and this event involved a significant loss of manpower. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse further? For example, we could talk about: The meaning of "vain men" – what does it signify? What the story reveals about Jephthah’s leadership style? How this event relates to broader themes in the Bible (like faith and sacrifice)?

Definition: And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:30. It’s a really important moment in the story of how Israel was saved from a huge threat. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Ammon is attacking Israel: The verse describes Ammon, a nation in the east, as sending an army to attack Israel. They were determined to take their land and its people. Jephthah’s Vow: Jephthah, the leader of Israel, makes a solemn promise to the Lord. He says he will completely deliver the Ammonites into his hands if the Lord allows it. What Does "Without Fail" Mean? This is the crucial part. “Without fail” means that Jephthah absolutely must do this. It’s not just a possibility, it's a guarantee – he will not hesitate or leave anything undone. The Significance: Protecting Israel: This vow is a huge display of faith and commitment to protecting the Israelites. A Test of Faith: It shows Jephthah’s unwavering dedication to defending his people, even in the face of a terrifying threat. Divine Intervention: It suggests that God is directly involved in the situation, choosing to protect Israel through this action. In short, Jephthah is promising to completely hand over the Ammonites to the Lord if he allows it – a powerful declaration of faith and protection. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a larger story or theme in the Bible? Give you some context about the situation in ancient Israel at that time?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:31. It's a pretty significant passage about God’s judgment and how He chooses to handle things. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is setting up a system where if someone comes to his house (which represents his sanctuary or home) with something – anything – when he returns from visiting the children of Ammon, it will be offered as a burnt offering to Him. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then it shall be…” : This is a command from God. He's making a specific plan. “…that whatever comes forth of my house…” : This refers to his home, his dwelling place, and everything within it – his family, his possessions, his people. It’s essentially everything he owns and cares about. "...to meet me..." : This is the key part. He’s expecting something that comes from his house to encounter him. It's a meeting, an encounter. "...when I return in peace from the children of Ammon…” : This tells us who he’s expecting. The children of Ammon are a group of people who were causing trouble and disrupting peace in Israel. They were essentially "coming forth" – coming to his house. He’s returning home after visiting them, and it's about him receiving their offering. "...shall surely be the LORD’S…” : This is a direct statement of God's will. It means that whatever comes forth will definitely be recognized as God's presence. "...and I will offer it up for a burnt offering.” : This is the action he’s taking. He’s going to present something – an animal or even a person – as a sacrifice to Him. A "burnt offering" is a ritualistic sacrifice, meaning it was made to honor God and demonstrate devotion. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to God's justice and his control over events. It’s a reminder that He is always watching and intervening in the world. It suggests: God is a watchful protector: He isn’t just passively observing; he’s actively managing situations. He’ll punish those who disrupt peace: The children of Ammon's actions were a disruption, and God will respond with judgment. It's about honoring Him: By offering this as a burnt offering, the people are acknowledging God's sovereignty and recognizing His power in the world. In essence, it’s a promise that God will not tolerate wrongdoing and will have a way to address it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Talk about what this verse might mean in the context of the story of Judges 11? Give an example of how this principle is used today (perhaps in a different historical situation)?

Definition: So Jephthah passed over unto the children of Ammon to fight against them; and the LORD delivered them into his hands.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:32. It’s a really important part of understanding a challenging situation in ancient Israel’s history. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Ammon is attacking Israel: The verse tells us that the Ammonites were invading and fighting against Israel. They were a group of people who were causing trouble. Jephthah Makes a Tough Decision: Jephthah, a powerful judge for Israel, made a really difficult decision. He decided to let the Ammonites go unharmed. He Passes Them Over: He didn’t fight them. Instead, he simply allowed them to continue their attack. The LORD Intervenes: God then intervened and delivered the Ammonites into Jephthah's hands. What it Means in a Broader Context: This verse is about a moment of profound faith and obedience to God’s will. It highlights several things: God's Sovereignty: It shows that God has ultimate control over everything, even when we don’t understand why. He doesn't always intervene in the way we want him to. Trusting in God's Plan: Jephthah trusted in God's plan, even though it seemed unfair to let the Ammonites fight. It shows that we should have faith in His purpose, no matter what happens. Acceptance of God’s Will: It suggests a willingness to submit to God’s will, even when it means letting things happen that might seem difficult or unpleasant. Key Takeaway: Jephthah didn't fight the Ammonites; he surrendered to God’s judgment. It's a story of faith and obedience, showing how God can protect His people even in the face of adversity. --- Would you like me to explain anything further about this verse? For example, I could: Discuss the historical context surrounding this event. Explain the significance of the word "delivered." Connect it to other biblical stories or teachings?

Definition: And he smote them from Aroer, even till thou come to Minnith, [even] twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards, with a very great slaughter. Thus the children of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:33. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a battle and its consequences. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Aroer is the Target: The verse describes a significant military campaign happening near Aroer, a city in ancient Syria (modern-day Turkey). The Attackers: A powerful army – led by a man named “He” – attacked Aroer and its surrounding areas. Massive Destruction: They destroyed many cities and settlements along the way. It's described as a "very great slaughter." This suggests a brutal and devastating conflict. The Result: Ammon and Israel Unite: This victory led to a significant shift in power. The Israelites (the people of Israel) were subdued and controlled, and the attackers (the Assyrians) forced the people of Ammon (a neighboring group) into submission. Let's unpack it further: “He smote them…” : This is a powerful image – someone decisively defeated. “…from Aroer…” : The battle was centered around Aroer. It wasn’t just any city; it was a key strategic location. “…even till thou come to Minnith, [even] twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards…” : This is where it gets really significant. “Minnith” is a place mentioned in the Bible that was a large agricultural area – think vast fields and vineyards. The Assyrians systematically destroyed many settlements and farms along this route. It’s like they completely took over a huge portion of farmland. "...with a very great slaughter." : This reinforces the violence and devastation of the battle. It wasn't just a skirmish; it was a full-scale assault with significant loss of life. The Significance: This verse tells us about a time of intense conflict between the Israelites and a powerful army from Syria. It highlights: Divine Justice: The Assyrians were acting in a way that seemed to be a punishment – they were destroying a region and its people. The Rise of Israel: While it’s still a battle, it ultimately led to the Israelites being brought under control and establishing their dominion over the land. In short, this verse describes a major military victory for the Assyrians that resulted in widespread destruction and the eventual submission of Ammon. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Connect this passage to other stories or events in the Bible? Give you another example of a verse with a similar theme?

Definition: And Jephthah came to Mizpeh unto his house, and, behold, his daughter came out to meet him with timbrels and with dances: and she [was his] only child; beside her he had neither son nor daughter.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:34. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about a man who was trying to evade God’s judgment. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Situation: Jephthah is Being Targeted: The verse describes Jephthah, a leader of Israel, being confronted by a man named “Jedom.” He’s being accused of trying to avoid God’s punishment. Jedom’s Behavior: Jedom is having his daughter, who was his only child, come to meet him. He's setting up a performance – he’s bringing musical instruments (timbrels and dances) to greet him. The Crucial Point: She’s His Only Child. This is the key detail. He’s presenting this as a deliberate attempt to avoid being judged by God. What it Means on a Deeper Level: This verse is a powerful illustration of how humans can try to avoid their own consequences. It's essentially saying: “I’m trying to run away from what I’ve done, but I’m doing it in a way that makes me even worse.” Judgment is Coming: The Bible tells us that God is going to punish Israel for this behavior – for not acknowledging his judgment. Jephthah's Attempt to Escape: Jephthah was trying to make it look like he wasn’t involved, but what he was really doing was a way of trying to avoid being held accountable. Symbolic Meaning: It’s often interpreted as a metaphor for humanity’s tendency to try and escape responsibility for our actions. We can do that in many ways – through denial, deflection, or attempts to minimize the impact of our choices. In short, this verse warns against trying to avoid God's judgment by making it look like you’re doing something else. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible passage? Discuss the context of Judges 11? Answer any specific questions you have about this verse?

Definition: And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he rent his clothes, and said, Alas, my daughter! thou hast brought me very low, and thou art one of them that trouble me: for I have opened my mouth unto the LORD, and I cannot go back.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:35. It’s a really powerful and dramatic moment in biblical history. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Story: A Woman is Involved: The verse tells us about a woman named “Sheba” who was causing trouble for the judges (leaders of Israel). She was being disruptive and defiant. He Sees Her and Reacts: A judge, named “he,” witnessed this woman’s behavior. He saw her act in a way that made him feel deeply troubled and upset. He Rents His Clothes: This is the key part. He renews his clothes . This means he completely abandoned his normal attire – his robe, his status, everything that marked him as a leader – to express his distress. It’s like saying, “I’m done with this. I can’t handle it anymore.” He Says "Alas, my daughter!" : This is a lament, a sorrowful expression of pain and regret. He's acknowledging that she has caused him significant suffering and distress. He States She is Disturbing Him: “Thou hast brought me very low” - He feels like he’s been wronged or burdened by her actions. He Confesses His Limitation: "and I cannot go back." – This is the most important part. He acknowledges that he can't undo what she has done, and he feels powerless to stop her behavior. What it Means - A Broad Interpretation: This verse is a moment of profound repentance and acknowledgement of a significant transgression. It’s a story about: Feeling Overwhelmed: The judge feels utterly defeated by the woman's actions. Recognition of Wrongdoing: He understands that she is actively causing him distress and has broken his peace. Acceptance of His Limits: He recognizes that he can’t control or fix the situation – he’s at a point where he has to accept that she is the one who needs to be addressed. It's a Powerful Moment in Biblical History: This verse is often seen as a pivotal moment where the judge recognizes the seriousness of the situation and begins to turn away from his own distress. It sets the stage for further action – perhaps involving repentance, seeking forgiveness, or ultimately dealing with her consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Discuss its significance within the context of biblical themes (like repentance and justice)?

Definition: And she said unto him, My father, [if] thou hast opened thy mouth unto the LORD, do to me according to that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth; forasmuch as the LORD hath taken vengeance for thee of thine enemies, [even] of the children of Ammon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:36. It’s a really intense and dramatic passage about a woman who was accused of serious wrongdoing. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: A Woman Accused: The verse tells us about a woman named “she” who is being accused of a terrible crime – essentially, she was involved in a deliberate attempt to provoke God’s wrath against others. “Lord” Involved: The word "Lord" here refers to God himself. This isn't just a casual reference; it emphasizes that God is directly involved and judging this woman. “Taken Vengeance”: The key part is the phrase “taken vengeance.” This means God has dealt a punishment against her, a consequence for her actions. What’s Happening in Simple Terms: The woman was deliberately trying to cause trouble or anger God. She was using words and actions to provoke him – essentially, she was pushing him to his limit and making him angry. God saw this as a serious offense and responded by taking vengeance against her. The Significance & What it Means: Serious Sin: This is a very serious situation because it’s a direct challenge to God's authority and justice. It shows that the woman was actively trying to defy him. God’s Justice: It highlights God’s right to punish those who disturb his peace and order. It emphasizes that God is not easily angered and will hold people accountable for their actions. Essentially, it's a story about a woman trying to provoke God's anger and ultimately facing the consequences of her actions. Important Note: This verse is quite graphic and deals with difficult themes. It’s important to approach it with sensitivity and understanding. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you a different perspective on the story? Connect this verse to a broader theme in the Bible (like forgiveness or obedience)?

Definition: And she said unto her father, Let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months, that I may go up and down upon the mountains, and bewail my virginity, I and my fellows.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:37. It’s a really interesting piece of history! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This passage describes a woman named “she” who was facing a difficult situation – she was being threatened by a group of men and needed to escape. She confided in her father, who told her to stay away from the area for two months to focus on her own reflection and self-examination. Here's a breakdown of what it’s saying: “And she said unto her father…” : This is a direct quote from the book of Judges. It shows that this wasn’t just a casual conversation; she was seriously considering it. “…let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months…” : She was asking her father to allow her to go on a journey – a period of time where she would travel and spend time reflecting on herself. "...that I may go up and down upon the mountains, and bewail my virginity..." : This is the key part! “Bewail” means to dwell on something, to think deeply about it. She was going to spend two months hiking or traveling up and down mountain paths, specifically focusing on her own purity and chastity – essentially, she was trying to figure out if she was sexually pure. "...I and my fellows." : This indicates that she was traveling alone, likely with a group of people (possibly her community) as she pondered this important question. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is a bit mysterious and symbolic. It suggests: A Test of Character: The woman was facing a challenge – potential danger or opposition. Her need to reflect on herself highlights the importance of moral strength and self-awareness. Seeking Guidance: She wasn't just looking for a solution; she was seeking wisdom, understanding, and perhaps even divine guidance in a crucial moment. Important Note: The exact context of this passage is debated among scholars. It’s often interpreted as a story about a woman struggling with a difficult situation – possibly related to a political conflict or a challenge to her community. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, perhaps focusing on a specific aspect like symbolism or its historical background? Or would you like me to offer some broader interpretations?

Definition: And he said, Go. And he sent her away [for] two months: and she went with her companions, and bewailed her virginity upon the mountains.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:38 together. It’s a bit mysterious, but here’s what it seems to be saying in plain language: The Basic Story: A Woman is Being Held Captive: The verse tells us that a woman has been taken captive by a man named “he.” He Orders Her Away: He decides she needs to go away for two months. She Goes with Her Companions: She travels with a group of people – likely some helpers or associates. She Mourns Her Virginity: The most striking part is that she expresses deep sorrow and lament about her virginity. “Bewailed her virginity” means she’s really heartbroken and feels this loss deeply. Putting it Together - A Possible Interpretation: This verse suggests a situation where a woman has been involved in something, perhaps a transgression or a conflict, that led to her being taken away. She's essentially exiled from her normal life and forced into a period of mourning and isolation. The fact that she’s expressing such deep sorrow about virginity points to a significant loss – possibly a betrayal, a broken promise, or something deeply painful. Important Note: This is just one possible interpretation based on the text itself. The Bible often uses symbolism and imagery to convey deeper meaning. It's not always straightforward! --- Do you want me to: Explain any of this in more detail? Discuss potential interpretations of the verse within a broader biblical context (like its role in the story of the Judges)? Give you some background on the story of Judges 11?