Definition: And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, Did not ye hate me, and expel me out of my father’s house? and why are ye come unto me now when ye are in distress?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 11:7. It’s a really important passage about a man named Jephthah and his situation. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jephthah was a man who was being held captive by the people of Gilead, a group led by King Saul. He was in great distress – he was suffering from a terrible illness and felt like giving up. He asked the elders of Gilead a crucial question: "Did you hate me? Did you want to throw me out?" What it Means - A Deeper Look: “And Jephthah said unto the elders…” : This means Jephthah was speaking directly to the leaders of Gilead. “…did not ye hate me, and expel me out of my father’s house?” : This is the core of the question. He's asking if they really hated him. "Did you hate me?" - it's a very direct inquiry about their feelings towards him. “And expel me out of my father’s house?” – this implies that he was being treated unfairly, perhaps as a victim or a burden. His father’s house meant his home and family. The Significance & Context: Jephthah's Distress: The verse highlights Jephthah's desperation. He was suffering immensely, and this question reveals the depth of his pain. Gilead's Position: The story shows that Gilead was a group of people who were actively trying to control and exploit others. Their actions were causing significant hardship for those around them. Jephthah’s Plea: Jephthah wasn’t simply asking about his own suffering; he was highlighting the injustice he was experiencing. He was essentially saying, "I'm in a terrible situation, and I deserve to be treated fairly." In essence, this verse is a powerful example of a man pleading for fairness and justice when facing extreme hardship. It shows that Jephthah wasn’t just complaining; he was raising a serious ethical question. Do you want me to explain why this verse is significant in the Bible or perhaps delve into its broader themes? For example, we could talk about: The theme of justice and fairness Jephthah's character - Is he heroic or flawed?