Book of Judges - Chapter 11 - Verse 10

In this verse from the book of Judges, the elders of Gilead are making a solemn vow to Jephthah, a warrior who has been asked to lead them in battle against their enemies. The phrase "The LORD be witness between us" is a powerful statement invoking the presence and judgment of God in their agreement. By calling on the Lord as a witness, the elders are emphasizing the seriousness of their promise to Jephthah. They are essentially saying that if they fail to fulfill their end of the bargain, they are trusting in God to hold them accountable for their actions. This demonstrates a belief in divine justice and the importance of keeping one's word. The elders are acknowledging that their agreement with Jephthah is not just a human contract, but a spiritual covenant with God as the ultimate witness.

Within the theological interpretation of Judges 11:10, where the elders of Gilead swear an oath to Jephthah in the name of the LORD, we see a demonstration of the importance of honoring one's word in the biblical context. This verse reflects the seriousness with which the elders regarded their agreement with Jephthah, as they called upon the LORD as a witness to their promise. The word "witness" in this passage carries the weight of divine authority, implying that any violation of the agreement would be seen and judged by God himself. This showcases the belief in the omniscience and justice of the LORD and how important it was for the Israelites to uphold their commitments in His name. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the significance of terms like "witness" to gain a richer understanding of the cultural and religious context in which these events transpired, shedding light on the complexities of faith and accountability in the ancient world.