Old Testament

Judges 11:2

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Judges 11:2, we learn about Jephthah, who was cast out by his half-brothers because he was the son of a concubine, not their mother.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Samuel
Written
Around 1050-1000 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
The Israelites living under the judges
CBTClear Bible Translation

Gilead's wife also gave him sons, and when those sons grew up, they threw Jephthah out. "You won't get any share of our father's inheritance," they told him, "because you're the son of another woman."

KJVKing James Version

And Gilead’s wife bare him sons; and his wife’s sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father’s house; for thou art the son of a strange woman.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Judges 11:2, we learn about Jephthah, who was cast out by his half-brothers because he was the son of a concubine, not their mother. This rejection highlights the social stigma and familial conflict that can arise from issues of legitimacy and inheritance. Jephthah's situation reflects the harsh realities of family dynamics, where favoritism and lineage can lead to deep divisions. His brothers' actions were not just about inheritance; they were also about identity and belonging. Being labeled as the 'son of a strange woman' indicates that Jephthah was seen as an outsider, which would have affected his self-worth and place in society. This verse sets the stage for Jephthah's later rise to leadership, showing that despite his rejection, he would eventually play a crucial role in Israel's history. It serves as a reminder that one's background does not determine their future potential or value in God's plan.

How to apply Judges 11:2 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on how we treat those who may be different or marginalized. It challenges us to embrace inclusivity and compassion, recognizing that everyone has value and a role to play, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Judges 11:2 mean?

Judges 11:2 describes how Jephthah was rejected by his half-brothers because he was the son of a concubine. This verse illustrates the themes of familial conflict and social stigma related to issues of legitimacy and inheritance.

What is the meaning of 'son of a strange woman' in Judges 11:2?

The phrase 'son of a strange woman' refers to Jephthah being born to a concubine, which made him an outsider in his family. This label highlights the rejection he faced and the societal views on legitimacy and belonging.

How does Judges 11:2 relate to family dynamics?

This verse reflects the complexities of family dynamics, showing how favoritism and lineage can create divisions. Jephthah's expulsion from his family illustrates the harsh realities of social acceptance and identity.

What themes are present in Judges 11:2?

Key themes in Judges 11:2 include rejection, family conflict, identity, inheritance, leadership, and social stigma. These themes highlight the challenges faced by those who are marginalized within their own families.

The Book of Judges
Book Summary

The Book of Judges

Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin

After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.

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