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Ἰεφθάε (Iephthae)

Iephthae

Jephthah

G2422 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The name Iephthae is the Greek rendering of the Hebrew judge Jephthah, whose story appears in the Old Testament book of Judges. In the New Testament, this form occurs only once, in Hebrews 11:32, where it is listed among the heroes of faith.

Lexical sources indicate that the name means "whom God sets free." This etymology provides a poignant contrast to the judge’s own narrative, which involves a vow leading to tragic consequences. Despite his flawed history, his inclusion in Hebrews highlights how God can work through imperfect individuals.

The brevity of its New Testament usage underscores that the author is citing historical figures rather than analyzing their theology. By naming Jephthah alongside Moses and David, the text affirms that faith, not moral perfection, is the criterion for being remembered in this "cloud of witnesses."

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Jephthah means "whom God sets free," yet his story in Judges is marked by a tragic vow and deep personal flaws. In Hebrews 11:32, he appears not for his wisdom or moral perfection, but simply because he trusted God. This inclusion reminds us that faith is not about being flawless; it is about turning to the Lord even when we are broken.

When you feel unworthy of God’s use, remember that Jephthah stands in the "cloud of witnesses" alongside giants like David and Samuel. His presence there shows that God values a heart that seeks Him over a record of sinless behavior. You do not need to have everything figured out to be part of God’s great story.

This passage invites you to bring your imperfect self to God. He does not wait for you to clean up your life before using you. Instead, He meets you in your weakness and works through your faith. Let this encourage you to trust Him today, exactly as you are.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Jephthah,1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • Ἰεφθάε,1×

Key Verses

  • Hebrews 11:32
    What more shall I say? For the time would fail me if I told of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets—

    This verse lists Jephthah among the heroes of faith, highlighting that his inclusion is based on trust in God rather than moral perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Jephthah mean?

The name Jephthah comes from the Hebrew word meaning "whom God sets free." This etymology is often seen as ironic given his tragic story in Judges, where he made a vow that led to severe consequences.

Why is Jephthah included in Hebrews 11?

Jephthah is listed in Hebrews 11:32 as one of the heroes of faith. His inclusion shows that God counts people as faithful based on their trust in Him, even if they have significant flaws or a complicated history.

Where does the name Iephthae appear in the New Testament?

The Greek form Iephthae appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 11:32. It is part of a list of Old Testament figures who demonstrated faith.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 1 verse
Hebrews 11:32

What more shall I say? For the time would fail me if I told of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the…