What does Judges 11:40 mean?
Although Jephthah's daughter (Judges 11:30–39) either died young or lived a life of celibate service to the Lord, her story resonated deeply with the "daughters of Israel." Her loss may have resonated as a symbol of all women who are unable to have children. One way or another, Jephthah's daughter became the focus of an annual four-day memorial. The women of Israel would apparently gather to lament her loss and, perhaps, their own or that of those close to them.In this way, the foolishness of Jephthah's vow lingered for generations. His example serves as a reminder not to attempt to manipulate God with promises in exchange for good outcomes.