Jephtha

About

Jephtha was the last oratorio produced by George Frideric Handel, who lost his sight during the production of the musical score. The story follows the story of Jephtha from the Book of Judges. In a rash prayer, Jephtha vows to God to slay the first creature he sees if he wins a battle. He is victorious, but the first one he sees is his daughter Iphis. The biblical story and the oratorio diverge here, but the stirring qualities of the music are moving and memorable. The oratorio debuted in 1752 with Handel conducting.