Judges 11:37 - Explanation and Commentary

The Bible verse Judges 11:37 reads: "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." This verse is part of the story of Jephthah, a judge of Israel, who made a rash vow to the Lord and the consequences that followed from it. To understand the full implications of this scripture, we turn to insights from notable public domain commentaries.

Overview and Context

Judges chapter 11 relates to a specific period in Israel's history marked by cycles of sin, oppression, and deliverance. Jephthah, who rose from a humble background, was chosen by the Israelites to lead them against the Ammonites. In a moment of desperation, he vows to sacrifice whoever comes out of his house upon his victorious return if God grants him success in battle. This vow sets the stage for the emotional conflict presented in Judges 11:37.

Interpretations from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry points out that Jephthah's vow, while made with the intent of glorifying God, ultimately resulted in personal tragedy. His daughter, being his only child, represents the cost of rash promises made in the heat of the moment. Henry emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before making vows, aligning with biblical teachings regarding the weight of our words (Ecclesiastes 5:4-5).

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes provides a detailed examination of the cultural context. He notes that in ancient Israel, the idea of virginity was held in high esteem, especially concerning daughters. The sorrow expressed in the verse signifies a profound loss. Barnes elucidates how the daughter’s request demonstrates her dignified acceptance of her fate, highlighting the themes of sacrifice and devotion found throughout scripture.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke offers an exploration of the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the passage. He discusses the implications of the daughter’s interaction with her father, emphasizing her role in bear witness to the consequences of Jephthah's vow. Clarke invites readers to consider the emotional weight of the situation, illustrating how personal desires can sometimes conflict with the commitments made before God, which invites further Scripture analysis.

Key Themes and Insights

• The Cost of Rash Promises: Jephthah's vow serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of thoughtful speech and the potential repercussions of our commitments.
• Emotional Sacrifice: The daughter's response showcases the themes of loyalty and submission, significant elements in the discussions surrounding biblical interpretations.
• The Role of Women: The text provides insights into the societal expectations and the valued roles of women in ancient Israel, which is important for understanding historical context of Bible verses.
• Understanding Sorrow: The act of bewailing virginity can be interpreted as a lament for lost potential and unfulfilled desires, connecting to broader themes of life and sacrifice in the Bible.

Life Application and Reflection

This verse and its surrounding context encourage deeper reflection on the vows we make, both spiritually and personally. For individuals engaging in Bible study groups or online Bible study, it invites discussions on how we interpret commitments in our own lives. The emotional weight of the daughters’ actions serves as a reminder to contemplate how we honor our promises and their impact on others.

Cross References

• Judges 11:30-31: Relates to the vow made by Jephthah and establishes the context for the events leading up to Judges 11:37.
• Ecclesiastes 5:4-5: A warning against making vows lightly, echoing the lessons learned from Jephthah's situation.
• Genesis 22:2: The story of Abraham and Isaac, presenting a parallel on the theme of sacrifice.

Conclusion

Judges 11:37 presents a multifaceted exploration of human emotion, commitment, and the stark realities of life choices. The insights from public domain commentaries provide valuable Bible verse explanations that emphasize the importance of understanding our words and actions within the broader narrative of divine faithfulness and human experience. For those engaged in Bible study materials or seeking Bible study insights, this passage serves as a profound and challenging point for reflection and growth.