Throughout history there has been a strong need to express words clearly. Time has shown that even the simplest mistake in pronunciation has led to the loss of life as well as great confusion. If we are to be effective in this world, we must speak clearly and precisely. In chapter 12 of Judges, we see that this was no different for the Ephraimites. This passage of scripture states that 42,000 men of this tribe were put to death by the mispronunciation of the word "shibboleth." There were a few factors that precipitated this event.One factor that we encounter is that of the Ephraimites. The Ephraimites shared the same border, the same God, and many of the same customs. They do, however, seem a little bit different from the Gileadites. Their language was the same but their dialect was a bit different. They also appear to be very brash in their mannerisms. Even Gideon had a few problems with this tribe when he went to battle with the Midianites. We see this recorded in Judges, chapter 8, "Then the Ephraimites said to him, "What have you done to us not to call us when you went to fight against the Midianites?" And they upbraided him violently." Not much has changed since the time of Gideon because they are in the same situation again with someone else. It appears that they were only willing to take offense, at not being invited into battle, only if the Israelites were victorious.Jephthah was a person whom his tribe needed desperately even though he had a few character flaws that worked against him. In Judges, chapter 11, we see that he was one that did not easily give in to pressure, and was very stubborn. This is shown in two instances. First, when he was asked to lead the battle against the Ammonites, he quickly questioned the fact that he was sent away because he was the son of a prostitute. Jephthah only continued when they vowed at Mizpah to make him their leader. Secondly, we see though a long explanation, the reas...
