Old Testament

Judges 11:32

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Jephthah crossed over to fight the Ammonites, and the LORD handed them over to him.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

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

What Judges 11:32 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jephthah, a leader of Israel, prepares to battle the Ammonites, who are oppressing his people. The phrase 'the LORD handed them over to him' indicates that God was actively involved in the conflict, granting Jephthah victory. This reflects the biblical theme of divine assistance in times of struggle. Jephthah's faith and leadership are crucial, as he steps forward to confront the enemy, showing courage and reliance on God. The victory signifies not just a military success but also God's faithfulness to His people, affirming that when they seek Him, He supports them in their battles. This moment is pivotal in the narrative of Judges, illustrating the cycle of Israel's disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Jephthah's story serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience to God, especially in challenging times.

How to apply Judges 11:32 to your life

When facing challenges, remember that faith in God can lead to victory. Like Jephthah, we should step forward with courage, trusting that God will support us in our struggles. Seek His guidance and strength in difficult situations.

Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Judges 11:32

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Judges 11:32

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 11:32 mean?

Judges 11:32 describes Jephthah leading Israel into battle against the Ammonites, with God granting him victory. This highlights God's involvement in Israel's struggles and the importance of faith and leadership.

What is the significance of Jephthah's victory in Judges 11:32?

Jephthah's victory signifies God's faithfulness to Israel, showing that when His people seek Him, He supports them in their battles. It reflects the broader theme of deliverance in the Book of Judges.

What does 'the LORD handed them over to him' mean in Judges 11:32?

The phrase 'the LORD handed them over to him' indicates that God actively aided Jephthah in defeating the Ammonites, emphasizing divine intervention in Israel's conflicts.

How does Judges 11:32 relate to the themes of faith and courage?

Judges 11:32 illustrates the themes of faith and courage as Jephthah steps forward to confront the enemy, trusting in God's support. His actions encourage believers to face challenges with similar reliance on God.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.