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Judges 11:28

Judges 11:28 in Multiple Translations

But the king of the Ammonites paid no heed to the message Jephthah sent him.

Howbeit the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him.

Howbeit the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him.

The king of the children of Ammon, however, did not give ear to the words which Jephthah sent to him.

But the king of Ammon didn't pay any attention to what Jephthah had to say.

Howbeit the King of the children of Ammon hearkened not vnto the wordes of Iphtah, which he had sent him.

And the king of the Bene-Ammon hath not hearkened unto the words of Jephthah which he sent unto him,

However, the king of the children of Ammon didn’t listen to the words of Jephthah which he sent him.

But, the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not to the words of Jephthah which he sent him.

And the king of the children of Ammon would not hearken to the words of Jephte, which he sent him by the messengers.

But the king of the Ammon people-group did not pay attention to that message from Jephthah.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 11:28

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Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Judges 11:28 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB וְ/לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֔ע מֶ֖לֶךְ בְּנֵ֣י עַמּ֑וֹן אֶל דִּבְרֵ֣י יִפְתָּ֔ח אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁלַ֖ח אֵלָֽי/ו
וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part
שָׁמַ֔ע shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Qal-Perf-3ms
מֶ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 King's N-ms
בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 son N-mp
עַמּ֑וֹן ʻAmmôwn H5983 Ammon N-proper
אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep
דִּבְרֵ֣י dâbâr H1697 Chronicles N-mp
יִפְתָּ֔ח Yiphtâch H3316 Jephthah N-proper
אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel
שָׁלַ֖ח shâlach H7971 to send V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אֵלָֽי/ו ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 11:28

וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
שָׁמַ֔ע shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
מֶ֖לֶךְ melek H4428 "King's" N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
בְּנֵ֣י bên H1121 "son" N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
עַמּ֑וֹן ʻAmmôwn H5983 "Ammon" N-proper
Ammon refers to a son of Lot and his descendants, who lived in Transjordan. The Ammonites are mentioned in the Bible as a distinct people. They appear in the book of Genesis and are also referenced in the history of the Israelites.
Definition: § Ammon = "tribal" a people dwelling in Transjordan descended from Lot through Ben-ammi
Usage: Occurs in 98 OT verses. KJV: Ammon, Ammonites. See also: Genesis 19:38; 2 Samuel 11:1; Psalms 83:8.
אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
דִּבְרֵ֣י dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" N-mp
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
יִפְתָּ֔ח Yiphtâch H3316 "Jephthah" N-proper
Jephthah was an Israelite judge who defeated the Ammonites, but also made a tragic vow that led to the sacrifice of his daughter. His name means 'he opens' and he's mentioned in the book of Judges as a hero of faith. Jephthah was the son of Gilead.
Definition: A Judge living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.11.1; son of: Gilead (H1568I) Also named: Iephthae (Ἰεφθάε "Jephthah" G2422) § Jephthah or Jiphtah = "he opens" 1) a son of Gilead and a concubine and the judge who defeated the Ammonites; after the victory because of a vow taken before the battle he sacrificed his daughter as a burnt offering 2) a city in Judah
Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: Jephthah, Jiphtah. See also: Joshua 15:43; Judges 11:14; 1 Samuel 12:11.
אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
שָׁלַ֖ח shâlach H7971 "to send" V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
אֵלָֽי/ו ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

Study Notes — Judges 11:28

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 2 Kings 14:11 But Amaziah would not listen, and Jehoash king of Israel advanced. He and King Amaziah of Judah faced each other at Beth-shemesh in Judah.
2 Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.

Judges 11:28 Summary

[This verse shows that the king of the Ammonites was not interested in making peace with Jephthah and the Israelites, and instead chose to continue fighting, as seen in Judges 11:28. This refusal to listen to reason and seek peace is a common theme in the Bible, as seen in verses such as Proverbs 12:15 and Matthew 5:9. By studying this verse, we can learn the importance of being open to reason and seeking peace in our own relationships and conflicts. As Romans 12:18 teaches, we should strive to live at peace with everyone, and as seen in the example of the king of the Ammonites, refusal to listen can lead to harm and conflict.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the king of the Ammonites refuse to listen to Jephthah's message?

The king of the Ammonites paid no heed to Jephthah's message because he was likely confident in his own power and uninterested in resolving the conflict peacefully, as seen in his actions leading up to this point, such as waging war against Israel, as mentioned in Judges 11:27.

What does this verse reveal about the character of the king of the Ammonites?

This verse shows that the king of the Ammonites was stubborn and unwilling to listen to reason, which is a common trait of those who oppose God's people, as seen in Pharaoh's refusal to listen to Moses in Exodus 5:2.

How does Jephthah's message to the king of the Ammonites relate to the broader biblical theme of conflict resolution?

Jephthah's message is an example of seeking peace and resolution through diplomacy, as encouraged in Scriptures such as Matthew 5:9 and Romans 12:18, which emphasize the importance of seeking peace and living harmoniously with others.

What can we learn from the king of the Ammonites' refusal to listen to Jephthah's message?

We can learn the importance of being open to reason and willing to listen to others, as Proverbs 12:15 teaches that the way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice, and as seen in the example of the king of the Ammonites, refusal to listen can lead to conflict and harm.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some times in my life when I have refused to listen to others, and what were the consequences?
  2. How can I apply the principle of seeking peace and resolution through diplomacy in my own relationships and conflicts?
  3. What role does pride and confidence in one's own power play in leading to conflict and refusal to listen to others?
  4. How can I cultivate a spirit of humility and openness to reason in my own life, and what biblical principles can guide me in this pursuit?

Gill's Exposition on Judges 11:28

Howbeit, the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 11:28

Howbeit the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him. Howbelt the kings of ... Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah.

Trapp's Commentary on Judges 11:28

Judges 11:28 Howbeit the king of the children of Ammon hearkened not unto the words of Jephthah which he sent him.Ver. 28. Hearkened not to the words of Jephthah.] For his ears were stopped with pertinacity, pride, and covetousness. God also hath a controversy against him, and a purpose to destroy him.

Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 11:28

(28) Hearkened not.—We are not told of any counter-arguments. Probably the king of Ammon cared only for the argument of the sword— “The good old rule Contented him, the simple plan That they should get who have the power, And they should keep who can.”

Sermons on Judges 11:28

SermonDescription
Gerhard Du Toit Humility vs Pride by Gerhard Du Toit In this sermon, the speaker discusses the destructive nature of pride in a person's life. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and repenting of pride, as it hinders one's r
Jim Cymbala God's Neibourhood by Jim Cymbala In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of setting our minds, hearts, and affections on eternal things where God dwells. They highlight the contrast between the value
Zac Poonen Brokenness by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of God breaking us in order to use us effectively. He uses the example of Jacob being broken for twenty years in his father-in
K.P. Yohannan Dependence Upon the Lord by K.P. Yohannan In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the destruction of a printing press and the loss of valuable materials. He emphasizes the importance of humility and exalting God in all asp
Jacob Prasch Grain Offering - Leviticus 2 by Jacob Prasch In this sermon, the speaker discusses his visit to the Airport Vineyard Church in Toronto and expresses his shock at the extreme and unscriptural practices he witnessed there. He e
Alan Cairns Voices From Hell Speaking to America - Part 3 by Alan Cairns This sermon delves into the prophetic lamentation of the impending destruction of Pharaoh, his armies, and the great Egyptian nation, challenging the false hope placed in Egypt's m
Zac Poonen (2006 Conference) 6.the Need in Our Midst Today by Zac Poonen This sermon emphasizes the importance of raising up godly leaders in churches, highlighting the joy of seeing humble brothers whom God has blessed without becoming proud. It warns

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