Ἰεφθάε

Jephthah

Definition

Ἰεφθάε is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Jephthah, referring to the Israelite judge from the book of Judges. In the New Testament, he is mentioned exclusively in Hebrews 11:32 as one of the heroes of faith, listed alongside Gideon, Barak, Samson, David, Samuel, and the prophets. His inclusion highlights that faith, despite personal flaws and tragic actions, is commended by God. The biblical narrative of Jephthah (Judges 11-12) portrays him as a mighty warrior and deliverer of Israel, but also as a figure who made a rash vow resulting in profound personal tragedy.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 11:32, within the 'Hall of Faith' chapter. It is used in a list of Old Testament figures who demonstrated faith, serving as historical examples for the Hebrew Christian audience. The usage is purely referential, identifying the person by name without elaboration on his story, relying on the reader's knowledge of the Old Testament account.

Etymology

Ἰεφθάε is a direct Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name יִפְתָּח (Yiphtach), meaning 'He opens' or 'May he open,' possibly implying 'God opens' (e.g., the womb or a way to victory). The Greek form follows standard conventions for rendering Hebrew names ending with the guttural 'ch' sound, often represented by an epsilon (ε) in the Septuagint and New Testament.

Semantic Range

Jephthah's inclusion in Hebrews 11 is theologically significant as it demonstrates the nature of biblical faith. Faith is not a record of moral perfection but trust in God amidst human weakness and complex circumstances. His story, involving both divine deliverance and a tragic vow, shows that God works through flawed individuals, and faith is commended even when its outworking is imperfect or grievous. Understanding this Greek name connects the New Testament teaching on faith directly to the complex narratives of the Old Testament.

In the original cultural setting, the name Jephthah would have immediately evoked his full story from Judges for a Jewish or Jewish-Christian audience. He was a socially marginalized figure (son of a prostitute) who became a military leader, reflecting God's use of the unlikely. His tragic vow and its consequence (Judges 11:30-40) were understood within the ancient Near Eastern context of solemn, binding oaths, highlighting the grave seriousness with which such vows were viewed.

κριτής (kritēs, G2923) — A general term for 'judge,' referring to the leaders of Israel before the monarchy, of which Jephthah was one.

Word Details

Scripture References