The story of Jephthah in the Book of Judges is one of the “texts of terror” — Biblical stories which exhibit abuse and violence against women. Jephthah’s daughter is not even named as she is victimized by his arrogance. While it initially seems a very bizarre story, a closer examination shows a similar aspect to our own relationship with God. Jephthah prayer is aimed at getting God to do what he wanted. He tries to manipulate God by his promise. We are tempted to do the same — “if you give me a good report from the doctor (or whatever) I will go to church, say prayers, give some charity.” Our prayer needs to become more like Jesus in Gethsemane: “Not my will, but yours be done.”
