34-35 Jephthah came home to Mizpah. His daughter ran from the house to welcome him home—dancing to tambourines! She was his only child. He had no son or daughter except her. When he realized who it was, he ripped his clothes, saying, “Ah, dearest daughter—I’m dirt. I’m despicable. My heart is torn to shreds. I made a vow to God and I can’t take it back!”

36 She said, “Dear father, if you made a vow to God, do to me what you vowed; God did his part and saved you from your Ammonite enemies.”

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $19.49
Save: $5.50 (22%)
The Message of Proverbs - eBook
The Message of Proverbs - eBook
Retail: $3.99
Our Price: $2.89
Save: $1.10 (28%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message//REMIX - eBook
The Message//REMIX - eBook
Retail: $14.99
Our Price: $9.69
Save: $5.30 (35%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Devotional Bible, Hardcover
The Message Devotional Bible, Hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $23.99
Save: $6.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Compact, Leather-Look
The Message Compact, Leather-Look
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $20.00 (67%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars