Judges 11:3

Authorized King James Version

Then Jephthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob: and there were gathered vain men to Jephthah, and went out with him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּבְרַ֤ח

H1272

fled

to bolt, i.e., figuratively, to flee suddenly

יִפְתָּח֙

H3316

Then Jephthah

jiphtach, an israelite; also a place in palestine

מִפְּנֵ֣י

H6440

from

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

אֶחָ֔יו

H251

his brethren

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

וַיֵּ֖שֶׁב

H3427

and dwelt

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בְּאֶ֣רֶץ

H776

in the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

ט֑וֹב

H2897

of Tob

tob, a region apparently east of the jordan

וַיִּֽתְלַקְּט֤וּ

H3950

and there were gathered

properly, to pick up, i.e., (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#10

יִפְתָּח֙

H3316

Then Jephthah

jiphtach, an israelite; also a place in palestine

#11

אֲנָשִׁ֣ים

H582

men

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

#12

רֵיקִ֔ים

H7386

vain

empty; figuratively, worthless

#13

וַיֵּֽצְא֖וּ

H3318

and went out

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

#14

עִמּֽוֹ׃

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Judges.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Judges chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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