Old Testament
Judges 11:31
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then whatever comes out of the door of my house to greet me when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, it will belong to the LORD, and I will offer it as a burnt offering.
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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.
What Judges 11:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 11:31, Jephthah makes a vow to God before going into battle against the Ammonites. He promises that whatever comes out of his house to greet him upon his victorious return will be dedicated to the Lord and offered as a burnt sacrifice. This vow reflects Jephthah's deep commitment to God and his desire to honor Him for granting victory. However, it also raises significant ethical questions about the nature of vows and the implications of such promises. The expectation that something or someone would come out to greet him suggests a lack of foresight regarding the potential consequences of his vow. This moment serves as a poignant reminder of the seriousness of making promises to God and the need for careful consideration before committing to such vows, especially when they involve significant sacrifices.
How to apply Judges 11:31 to your life
When making commitments, especially to God, we should consider the potential consequences and ensure our promises align with our values. Reflecting on Jephthah's vow encourages us to think carefully before speaking and to honor our commitments with integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Keep studying Judges 11:31
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 11:31 mean?
Judges 11:31 describes Jephthah's vow to God, promising that whatever comes out of his house to greet him after battle will be dedicated to the Lord and offered as a burnt sacrifice. This reflects his commitment to honor God for victory but also highlights the serious implications of making such vows.
What is the significance of Jephthah's vow in Judges 11:31?
Jephthah's vow is significant because it illustrates the depth of his faith and commitment to God, as well as the potential consequences of rash promises. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of considering the implications of one's commitments.
What does the phrase 'burnt offering' mean in Judges 11:31?
In Judges 11:31, a 'burnt offering' refers to a type of sacrifice where the entire animal is consumed by fire as an act of worship to God. It symbolizes total dedication and surrender to God.
What are the consequences of Jephthah's vow in Judges 11:31?
The consequences of Jephthah's vow are profound, as it leads to a tragic outcome when he sacrifices his daughter, who is the first to greet him. This highlights the serious nature of making vows and the unforeseen repercussions they can have.
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