There is no biblical or historical evidence that Jephthah’s daughter was named Adah. The Bible, specifically Judges 11, does not provide a name for her. However, some have speculated or assumed names for her based on cultural or linguistic reasoning. This topic will explore the story of Jephthah’s daughter, why she might have been given the name Adah in some traditions, and how biblical names are assigned when none are explicitly given.
1. Jephthah’s Tragic Vow
The story of Jephthah and his daughter is found in Judges 11:29-40. Jephthah was a leader of Israel who made a rash vow to God before going into battle against the Ammonites. He promised:
‘If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.’ (Judges 11:30-31)
When Jephthah won the battle and returned home, his only daughter came out to greet him with tambourines and dancing. Since he had vowed to sacrifice the first thing that greeted him, he was devastated.
2. The Fate of Jephthah’s Daughter
The Bible does not explicitly state whether Jephthah actually sacrificed his daughter or if she was dedicated to lifelong service at the Tabernacle. However, it does mention that she was given two months to mourn her virginity, suggesting that she would never marry or have children.
While the Bible does not name Jephthah’s daughter, some sources or interpretations may have referred to her as Adah. Here are a few possible reasons:
1. Adah as a Common Hebrew Name
The name Adah appears in the Bible as the name of two women:
-
Adah, wife of Lamech (Genesis 4:19)
-
Adah, wife of Esau (Genesis 36:2)
The name means “adornment” or “beauty” in Hebrew. Since Jephthah’s daughter is described as a young woman full of joy and innocence, some later traditions may have assigned her the name Adah to reflect her grace.
2. A Possible Oral Tradition
In some cultures, unnamed biblical characters are later given names through oral traditions. If a Jewish or Christian community sought to humanize Jephthah’s daughter, they may have chosen a name that was familiar and fitting, like Adah.
3. Confusion with Other Biblical Figures
Since Adah was already a known biblical name, some people might have mistakenly associated it with Jephthah’s daughter over time. Without direct biblical evidence, however, this remains a theory rather than a fact.
1. Why Was Jephthah’s Daughter Not Named in Scripture?
The Bible often leaves certain women unnamed, particularly in stories that focus on men’s actions or covenants with God. Other unnamed women in the Bible include:
-
Lot’s wife (Genesis 19:26)
-
Pharaoh’s daughter who saved Moses (Exodus 2:5-10)
-
The widow of Zarephath who helped Elijah (1 Kings 17:8-16)
The absence of a name does not diminish their significance but suggests that the moral lesson is more important than personal identity.
2. Symbolism in the Story of Jephthah’s Daughter
Jephthah’s daughter represents:
-
The consequences of rash vows – Jephthah’s promise to God led to tragic results.
-
Obedience and sacrifice – She accepted her fate with grace, much like Isaac in Genesis 22, when Abraham prepared to sacrifice him.
-
The importance of careful words – The story serves as a warning to think before making promises to God.
1. Did Jephthah Really Sacrifice His Daughter?
There is debate over whether Jephthah literally sacrificed his daughter or dedicated her to God’s service.
-
Literal Sacrifice Theory: Some believe Jephthah followed through with a burnt offering, though this would contradict God’s law against human sacrifice (Leviticus 18:21).
-
Tabernacle Service Theory: Others believe she was set apart as a servant at the Tabernacle, similar to how Hannah dedicated Samuel (1 Samuel 1:11).
Either way, her life was forever changed by Jephthah’s unwise vow.
2. Her Legacy in Jewish Tradition
The story concludes with Israelite women mourning her every year. This indicates that Jephthah’s daughter was honored for her sacrifice, even though she remains unnamed.
Jephthah’s daughter does not have a biblical name, but some traditions or interpretations may have referred to her as Adah for cultural or symbolic reasons. Whether she was sacrificed or dedicated to God, her story serves as a powerful lesson on faith, vows, and consequences.
Her legacy reminds us to be careful with our promises and to seek wisdom before making commitments, especially in matters of faith.