Bible Dictionary
Shibboleth
Shibboleth was a word used by the Gileadites to identify fleeing Ephraimites by their pronunciation. It became a test of tribal speech and resulted in the execution of those who could not pronounce it correctly.
Biblical Usage
After defeating the Ephraimites, the Gileadites guarded the Jordan crossings under Jephthah. Those who pronounced Shibboleth as Sibboleth were identified as Ephraimites and killed; forty-two thousand were reported to have fallen.
Scripture References