Bible Dictionary
Jephthah
Jephthah was a Gileadite judge who led Israel to victory over the Ammonites and judged Israel for six years. His rash vow concerning his daughter remains a solemn example of the danger of making careless promises to God.
Biblical Usage
Before battle Jephthah vowed to offer to the Lord whatever first came from his house to greet him. He defeated Ammon, but afterward faced conflict with Ephraim and used the word “Shibboleth” to identify fugitives.
Scripture References