Judges 11:32
*So Jephthah crossed over to the sons of Ammon to fight against them; and the LORD gave them into his hand.* (v.32) Jephthah served as a judge over Israel during the era traditionally dated to the late 12th or early 11th century BC, in a time of repeated cycles of disobedience and deliverance. When the Israelites cried out for help, the LORD raised up this courageous leader from Gilead, a region east of the Jordan River (Judges 11:1). The sons of Ammon, descended from the younger daughter of Lot, inhabited the land just to the east of Israel, an area corresponding to modern-day Jordan, with their capital at Rabbah. They often clashed with Israel, as seen in their hostilities throughout the Book of Judges. Yet even with strong opposition, Jephthah’s forces, by God’s power, tore through many Ammonite cities, demonstrating once again that victory belonged to the LORD. citeturn0file1 citeturn0file12
As Jephthah prepared for battle, he trusted God to vindicate Israel against their oppressors. This verse highlights the pivotal moment when he “crossed over to the sons of Ammon to fight against them,” showing his willingness to act in faith. The text also underscores the ultimate source of the victory: the LORD Himself. No matter how daunting the Ammonite threat appeared, their defeat lay squarely in God’s hands. By enabling Jephthah’s triumph, the LORD proved His covenant loyalty, mirroring other Old Testament passages where God’s power intervenes decisively on behalf of His people.
In broader biblical context, Jephthah’s reliance on God and subsequent triumph connect to the many examples of deliverance by faith recorded in Scripture. In Hebrews, the author singles out Jephthah among the faithful who “by faith conquered kingdoms…and put foreign armies to flight,” reminding believers that God often works through faithful but imperfect individuals to fulfill His purposes. Jephthah’s story, though marked by controversy and a tragic vow, nonetheless reveals the might of the Suzerain God, who rescues His people even when they have strayed. citeturn0file1
God gave Jephthah victory over the Ammonites, showcasing His sovereignty and faithfulness to deliver those who trust in Him.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Judges 4:11 meaning. Judges 4:11 introduces Heber the Kenite. The details concerning Heber’s location and lineage in this verse foreshadow his involvement in the unfolding events of Sisera’s defeat, though it seems incidental at first.
- Hebrews 11:32-34 meaning. The Pauline Author recognizes that he cannot acknowledge all of the faithful believers, but he names some of the incredible trials they endured for their faithfulness.
- Acts 11:19-26 meaning. Gentiles in Antioch Believe in Jesus: At the murder of Stephen years prior, a persecution against the church began. Due to the persecution, believing Jews spread out to regions like Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, initially preaching about Jesus only to Jews. However, some began preaching to Greeks in Antioch. A significant number of Greeks believed in Jesus. Hearing this, the Jerusalem church sends Barnabas to Antioch, who, seeing God at work among the Antiochians, further encourages the believers in their faith. Barnabas then seeks Saul (Paul) to join him in teaching the rapidly growing community. Paul ministers there for a year.