The Israelites fully abandon the Lord, leading to 18 years of Ammonite oppression. On the east side of the Jordan, the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh are subjugated. The Ammonites are organized, militarily strong, and expanding their territory. Seeing the crisis, the elders of Gilead call Jephthah from the land of Tob, where he had been exiled. Jephthah, a skilled warrior but born of a marginalized family, is made leader to confront the Ammonite threat. He first attempts diplomacy, sending messengers to the Ammonite king, disputing their historical claim to the land, setting the stage for the battle and the vow that will define his leadership.

Highlights:

Israel abandons the Lord → oppression begins

Ammonites crush Israel, east of the Jordan

Jephthah’s exile in Tob → rise as mercenary leader

Elders of Gilead recruit Jephthah

Diplomatic message sent to the Ammonite king

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Sources:

ESV Study Bible

ESV Archaeology Study Bible

Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible (NIV)

New Spirit-Filled Life Bible (NLT)

BiblicalArchaeology.org

ArmstrongInstitute.org

Rose Book of Bible Charts, Maps, and Timelines

Satellite Bible Atlas by Schlegel