Jephtha (Handel)

Thomas Morell, based on the story of Jephtha in Judges (Chapter 11) and Jephthes, sive Votum (Jeptha, or the Vow) (1554) by George Buchanan.

[1] In the autograph score, at the end of the chorus "How dark, O Lord, are thy decrees" he wrote "Reached here on 13 February 1751, unable to go on owing to weakening of the sight of my left eye."

Zebul advises them to recall his half-brother Jephtha from exile so he can lead them to freedom and to repent of their worship of the Ammonites' idols (Air: Pour forth no more unheeded pray'rs).

His wife Storgé supports his mission to win freedom for their country but will miss him sorely while he is away (Air: In gentle murmurs will I mourn).

Jephtha, alone, vows to the Almighty that if he is allowed to win victory over Israel's enemies, he will sacrifice to God the first living thing he sees upon his return after the battle (Accompanied recitative: What mean these doubtful fancies of the brain?)

Therefore, Jephtha orders the Israelites to prepare for war and they express their confidence that God will aid them (Chorus: When His loud voice in thunder spoke).

Iphis prepares to go out to congratulate her father with other young girls, greeting him with song and dance (Air:Tune the soft melodious lute).

In intense distress, Jephtha prepares to take his beloved daughter's life (Accompanied recitative: Hide thou thy hated beams) and prays that she may be received into heaven (Air: Waft her, angels, through the skies).

As Jephtha lifts the sacrificial knife however, heavenly music is heard and an angel appears, declaring that human sacrifice is not pleasing to God.

The rest of Jephtha's family come in and Zebul proclaims that Iphis' faith and courage will forever be remembered (Air: Laud her, all ye virgin train).

Iphis hopes he will find another love as she dedicates herself to serve God alone throughout her life (Air: All that is in Hamor mine) and promises to hold him in esteem as he accepts her decision (Duet: Freely I to Heav'n resign).