Book of Judges - Chapter 11 - Verse 39

After two months of being kept in seclusion following her father's vow to dedicate her to the Lord, the young woman in this verse returned to her father's house. Despite the solemnity of the vow, which required her to remain celibate, it was customary in Israel for such vows to be honored. This practice reflected the devoutness and obedience to religious traditions prevalent among the Israelites. The woman's obedience to her father's vow and her commitment to abstaining from relations with men during this period were seen as acts of piety and devotion to God. In ancient Israelite society, adherence to religious customs and laws held significant importance, and individuals were expected to uphold these traditions diligently. This verse highlights the cultural and religious norms of the time, emphasizing the significance of fulfilling one's vows and following established customs within the community.

The theological interpretation of Judges 11:39 focuses on the concept of fulfilling vows and the importance of commitment to God. In this verse, Jephthah's daughter returned to her father after two months, and he fulfilled the vow he had made to the Lord, which involved sacrificing her as a burnt offering. While this act may seem harsh by today's standards, it emphasizes the seriousness of promises made to God in ancient Israelite society. The verse also highlights the purity of Jephthah's daughter, as she had not known any man before her sacrifice. This detail serves to emphasize her innocence and devotion to God.

The phrase "And it was a custom in Israel" suggests that the practice of fulfilling vows made to God was a common occurrence among the Israelites. This custom underscores the importance of keeping one's word and honoring commitments made to the Lord. It also reveals the cultural and religious norms of ancient Israel, where vows were taken seriously and were seen as binding obligations. Overall, this verse provides valuable insight into the theological significance of fulfilling vows and upholding one's commitment to God in ancient Israelite society.