At first I was really thinking Jephthah seemed like a smart guy. Making a logical claim and rational appeal to the Ammonites. But then the vow and the exchange thereafter blows my mind. If I were Jephthah, Id say, hey Lord, obviously this isn't what you want or what I want, what would you want from me. And I imagine God would have a much better solution than the human sacrifice of his daughter. It's like the story of Isaac and Abraham without the happy ending, nor without any real guidance from God. In fact, God didn't seem to be directing any of this, simply responding. But that is also a trend I guess with Israel, he responds to their cries.

A strange vow to make with dire consequences. Like you Greg I avoid any vows or pledges. Seems like a common theme throughout the Bible.