Samson’s Marriage 1One day Samson went down to Timnah, where he saw a young Philistine woman. 2So he returned and told his father and mother, “I have seen a daughter of the Philistines in Timnah. Now get her for me as a wife.” 3But his father and mother replied, “Can’t you find a young woman among your relatives or among any of our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?” But Samson told his father, “Get her for me, for she is pleasing to my eyes.” 4(Now his father and mother did not know this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines; for at that time the Philistines were ruling over Israel.) 5Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him, 6and the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as one would tear a young goat. But he did not tell his father or mother what he had done. 7Then Samson continued on his way down and spoke to the woman, because she was pleasing to his eyes. Samson’s Riddle 8When Samson returned later to take her, he left the road to see the lion’s carcass, and in it was a swarm of bees, along with their honey. 9So he scooped some honey into his hands and ate it as he went along. And when he returned to his father and mother, he gave some to them and they ate it. But he did not tell them that he had taken the honey from the lion’s carcass. 10Then his father went to visit the woman, and Samson prepared a feast there, as was customary for the bridegroom. 11And when the Philistines saw him,a they selected thirty men to accompany him. 12“Let me tell you a riddle,” Samson said to them. “If you can solve it for me within the seven days of the feast, I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes. 13But if you cannot solve it, you must give me thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes.” “Tell us your riddle,” they replied. “Let us hear it.” 14So he said to them: “Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet.” For three days they were unable to explain the riddle. 15So on the fourthb day they said to Samson’s wife, “Entice your husband to explain the riddle to us, or we will burn you and your father’s household to death. Did you invite us here to rob us?” 16Then Samson’s wife came to him, weeping, and said, “You hate me! You do not really love me! You have posed to my people a riddle, but have not explained it to me.” “Look,” he said, “I have not even explained it to my father or mother, so why should I explain it to you?” 17She wept the whole seven days of the feast, and finally on the seventh day, because she had pressed him so much, he told her the answer. And in turn she explained the riddle to her people. 18Before sunset on the seventh day, the men of the city said to Samson: “What is sweeter than honey? And what is stronger than a lion?” So he said to them: “If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have solved my riddle!” 19Then the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, killed thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave their clothes to those who had solved the riddle. And burning with anger, Samson returned to his father’s house, 20and his wife was given to one of the men who had accompanied him. Footnotes: 11 a Or when the bride’s parents saw him; literally when they saw him 15 b LXX and Syriac; Hebrew seventh Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Judges 14 Summary Samson's RiddleVerses 1–4 – Samson Chooses a Philistine Bride Verses 5–9 – The Lion and the Honey Verses 10–14 – The Wedding Feast and the Riddle Verses 15–18 – Samson Betrayed and the Riddle Solved Verses 19–20 – Samson’s Violent Response and Wife Lost Judges 14 is an intriguing chapter that unveils the enigmatic strength of Samson, his Philistine bride, and their complex relationship. The narrative unfolds with various events ranging from a pre-arranged marriage to a riddle contest. Betrayal, deceit, divine intervention, and retribution play out in the narrative, offering a wealth of lessons and reflections for the reader. Historical Background • Period: Late Judges era, roughly 11th century BC, when “the Philistines were ruling over Israel” (v. 4). • Israel had no king (Judges 17:6); local deliverers rose up when oppression became unbearable. • Samson’s life parallels the cycle of sin, oppression, cry for help, and deliverance found throughout Judges 2:11-19. Geography: Timnah and Philistia • Timnah sat on the border between Danite territory and Philistine-controlled lowlands, creating daily tension. • Archaeological digs at Tel Batash (identified as ancient Timnah) show Philistine pottery styles dominating the strata from Samson’s era, confirming strong Philistine presence. • Ashkelon, where Samson finds his thirty victims, was a major Philistine port with thick defensive walls—his entry and exit reveal extraordinary courage powered by God. The Nazarite Vow in Practice • Judges 13:5 declared Samson “a Nazirite to God from the womb.” A Nazirite avoided wine (Numbers 6:3-4), uncut hair (v. 5), and contact with corpses (v. 6-7). • Samson strolls through vineyards (v. 5) and scoops honey from a carcass (v. 8-9). These actions foreshadow later compromises (16:1, 16:17) and highlight God’s grace—He still uses Samson despite failures. Samson’s Character • Impulsive (“Get her for me, for she is pleasing to me,” v. 3). • Secretive (doesn’t tell parents about the lion or honey, vv. 6-9). • Witty but prideful (creates a riddle only he can solve). • Capable of intense anger (v. 19). His flaws never negate God’s plan; they simply shape the path God uses. God’s Hidden Plan • Verse 4 shows the LORD engineering conflict with Philistia through Samson’s personal choices. • Similar pattern: Joseph’s brothers’ cruelty “intended harm,” yet God “intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). • Romans 8:28 echoes the principle that God works through all circumstances for His purpose. The Lion Incident: Strength From the Spirit • Twice “the Spirit of the LORD” rushes on Samson (vv. 6, 19), matching earlier Spirit empowerments of Othniel (Judges 3:10) and Gideon (6:34). • The torn lion illustrates God-given might, not human muscle. 1 Samuel 17:37 later mirrors this when David recalls slaying lions and bears by the LORD’s help. Honey in the Carcass: Clean and Unclean • Touching a dead body made one unclean (Leviticus 11:39-40), yet Samson treats the carcass casually. • The episode underscores his tendency to bend rules, setting the stage for bigger violations in chapter 16. • The sweetness of honey emerging from death hints that God can bring blessing out of brokenness—an early whisper of Resurrection hope (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). Riddles and Feasts in Ancient Culture • Feasts lasted seven days (Genesis 29:27); riddles were common banquet entertainment (1 Kings 10:1). • Thirty linen garments equal expensive, festive wear; significant stakes highlight Samson’s confidence. • Philistines assign thirty companions—likely guards as much as groomsmen—to watch this unpredictable Israelite. Philistine Threats and Violence • Philistines threaten the bride: “Persuade your husband … or we will burn you” (v. 15). The threat becomes reality in 15:6, showing the brutal environment. • Samson’s raid on Ashkelon serves justice on oppressors yet also feeds a personal grudge—a complex mix of divine mission and human vendetta. Connections to Other Scriptures • Parallel with Ruth 1:16-17, where cross-cultural marriage yields blessing; here it sparks conflict. • Strong-weak motif: God uses the weak to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27)—ironically displayed through strong Samson’s moral weakness. • Hebrews 11:32 lists Samson among the faithful, emphasizing God’s mercy despite messy lives. Lessons for Followers Today • God’s will prevails even when motives are questionable. • Compromise in small areas (vineyard stroll, carcass honey) can snowball into greater trouble. • Spiritual gifts or strength are no substitute for obedience; both are needed. • Pressure from peers or family can pull hearts away from commitment—watch the company you keep (1 Corinthians 15:33). Archaeological Insights • Bee-keeping: jars with honey residue found in Tel Rehov (Iron Age) confirm honey’s value and hint at wild swarms common in abandoned animal bodies. • Linen production: Philistine sites yield spindle whorls and loom weights, demonstrating advanced textile commerce fitting the wager. Echoes of Redemption • Samson brings deliverance through single-handed victory, pointing forward to the ultimate Deliverer who wins salvation alone. • Out of death (lion’s carcass) comes sweetness—anticipating life springing from Christ’s tomb. • Betrayal by a loved one (Samson’s bride) foreshadows Judas’s kiss, yet God uses even betrayal to accomplish the greater rescue plan. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6Encourages us to trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding, aligning with the need to seek God's guidance. Romans 8:28 Reminds us that God works all things together for good for those who love Him, echoing the theme of God's sovereignty in Judges 14. Ephesians 6:10-11 Calls us to be strong in the Lord and put on the full armor of God, similar to relying on the Holy Spirit's empowerment. Teaching Points Samson's Desire and DisobedienceJudges 14:1-3 highlights Samson's desire to marry a Philistine woman, which was against the wishes of his parents and contrary to God's command for Israel to remain separate from the surrounding nations. This sets the stage for understanding the tension between personal desires and divine commands. God's Sovereignty in Human Choices Despite Samson's disobedience, Judges 14:4 reveals that his father and mother did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines. This teaches us that God can use even our misguided choices to fulfill His greater purposes. The Spirit of the Lord Empowers Samson In Judges 14:6, the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, enabling Samson to tear a lion apart with his bare hands. This demonstrates that God's Spirit empowers us to accomplish tasks beyond our natural abilities. Riddles and Deception The riddle Samson poses in Judges 14:12-14 and the subsequent deception by his wife and the Philistines (Judges 14:15-18) illustrate the themes of secrecy, betrayal, and the consequences of not adhering to God's wisdom. God's Deliverance through Imperfect Vessels Despite the chaos and personal failings, Judges 14:19 shows that God used Samson to strike down thirty Philistines, beginning the deliverance of Israel from Philistine oppression. Practical Applications Seek God's GuidanceBefore making significant decisions, seek God's wisdom and guidance to align your desires with His will. Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when we make mistakes, trust that God can work through our imperfections to bring about His purposes. Rely on the Holy Spirit Just as Samson was empowered by the Spirit, rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in your daily life. Guard Against Deception Be vigilant against deception and seek to live a life of integrity and truth. Recognize God's Deliverance Acknowledge and give thanks for the ways God delivers and protects us, even when we are unaware of His workings. People 1. SamsonThe central figure in Judges 14, Samson is a Nazirite and judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength. He is the son of Manoah and is seeking a Philistine woman from Timnah as his wife, which sets the stage for the events in this chapter. 2. Samson's Parents While not named in this chapter, Samson's parents play a significant role. They are concerned about his choice to marry a Philistine woman, as they prefer he marries within the Israelite community. Their dialogue with Samson highlights the cultural and religious tensions of the time. 3. The Philistine Woman She is the woman from Timnah whom Samson desires to marry. Her identity is central to the narrative as her relationship with Samson leads to a series of conflicts between Samson and the Philistines. 4. The Young Lion While not a person, the young lion that Samson encounters on his way to Timnah is significant. Samson's killing of the lion with his bare hands demonstrates his God-given strength and foreshadows his future exploits against the Philistines. 5. The Thirty Companions These are the thirty Philistine men who accompany Samson during his wedding feast. They become part of the riddle challenge that Samson poses, which ultimately leads to conflict and violence. 6. Samson's Wife Although she is the same as the Philistine woman mentioned earlier, her role as Samson's wife becomes more pronounced as she is coerced by the thirty companions to extract the answer to Samson's riddle, leading to betrayal and further strife. In the original Hebrew text, the names and roles of these individuals are consistent with the cultural and historical context of the narrative. The interactions between these characters drive the plot and highlight the themes of conflict, betrayal, and divine intervention that are prevalent throughout the Book of Judges. Places 1. TimnahJudges 14:1: "Then Samson went down to Timnah and saw a young Philistine woman there." Timnah is a town in the territory of the Philistines. The Hebrew root for Timnah (תִּמְנָה) suggests a place that is "allotted" or "assigned," indicating its significance as a designated area within the Philistine domain. 2. Zorah Judges 14:5: "Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him." Zorah is Samson's hometown, located in the tribe of Dan's territory. The Hebrew root (צָרְעָה) can imply "hornet" or "wasp," possibly reflecting the area's characteristics or historical events. 3. Ashkelon Judges 14:19: "Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave the changes of clothes to those who had explained the riddle." Ashkelon is one of the five major Philistine cities, located on the Mediterranean coast. The name Ashkelon (אַשְׁקְלוֹן) is thought to derive from a root meaning "to weigh" or "to balance," possibly referring to its role as a trade center. Events 1. Samson Desires a Philistine WifeSamson goes down to Timnah and sees a Philistine woman whom he desires to marry. He tells his parents, "I have seen a woman in Timnah of the daughters of the Philistines. Now get her for me as a wife" (Judges 14:2). The Hebrew root for "get" (לָקַח, laqach) implies taking or acquiring, indicating Samson's determination. 2. Parents' Objection and Samson's Insistence Samson's parents question his choice, asking, "Is there no woman among the daughters of your brothers or among all our people, that you must go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?" (Judges 14:3). Despite their objection, Samson insists, saying, "Get her for me, for she is pleasing to my eyes" (Judges 14:3). 3. God's Purpose in Samson's Choice The narrative reveals that Samson's desire was from the LORD, as He was seeking an occasion against the Philistines (Judges 14:4). The Hebrew word for "occasion" (תֹּאֲנָה, to'anah) suggests a pretext or opportunity. 4. Samson Kills a Lion As Samson travels to Timnah with his parents, a young lion attacks him. "The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as one would tear a young goat" (Judges 14:6). The Hebrew word for "tear" (שָׁסַע, shasa) indicates a violent ripping. 5. Samson's Riddle At the wedding feast, Samson poses a riddle to the Philistine guests, based on his encounter with the lion: "Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet" (Judges 14:14). The riddle is rooted in the Hebrew wordplay and cultural context. 6. Philistines Coerce Samson's Wife Unable to solve the riddle, the Philistines threaten Samson's wife, saying, "Entice your husband to explain the riddle to us, or we will burn you and your father's house with fire" (Judges 14:15). The Hebrew root for "entice" (פָּתָה, pathah) implies persuasion or seduction. 7. Samson Reveals the Riddle's Answer Pressured by his wife, Samson reveals the answer to the riddle. She, in turn, tells the Philistines (Judges 14:17). 8. Samson's Anger and Retaliation When the Philistines answer the riddle, Samson realizes their deceit. "The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, took their apparel, and gave the changes of clothes to those who had explained the riddle" (Judges 14:19). 9. Samson's Wife Given to Another In his anger, Samson returns to his father's house, and his wife is given to his companion who had been his best man (Judges 14:20). The Hebrew context suggests a breach of trust and betrayal. Topics 1. Samson's Desire for a Philistine WifeSamson sees a Philistine woman in Timnah and desires to marry her, despite his parents' objections. This reflects the tension between Israel and the Philistines. The Hebrew root for "desire" (חָפֵץ, chaphets) indicates a strong inclination or delight. 2. God's Sovereign Plan Judges 14:4 notes that Samson's desire was part of God's plan to confront the Philistines: "His father and mother did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines." This highlights God's sovereignty in using human actions to fulfill divine purposes. 3. The Lion and the Spirit of the LORD As Samson travels to Timnah, he encounters a lion, and "the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him" (Judges 14:6). The Hebrew word for "Spirit" (רוּחַ, ruach) signifies a divine empowerment that enables Samson to tear the lion apart. 4. The Riddle at the Feast During his wedding feast, Samson poses a riddle to the Philistines, based on his encounter with the lion: "Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet" (Judges 14:14). This riddle becomes a pivotal point in the narrative. 5. Betrayal and Revelation Samson's wife is coerced by the Philistines to extract the answer to the riddle from Samson. Her betrayal leads to the revelation of the riddle's answer, demonstrating the theme of deception and betrayal. 6. Samson's Vengeance In response to the Philistines solving the riddle, "the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him" again, and Samson strikes down thirty men in Ashkelon (Judges 14:19). This act of vengeance is part of the ongoing conflict between Samson and the Philistines. 7. The Broken Marriage The chapter concludes with Samson's wife being given to another man, highlighting the personal and relational consequences of the events. This reflects the broader theme of broken relationships and the cost of disobedience. Themes 1. Divine Sovereignty and PurposeJudges 14:4 states, "His father and mother did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines." This theme highlights God's sovereignty and purpose, even in seemingly personal decisions. The Hebrew root here, "מֵיְהוָה" (meyehovah), emphasizes that the events were orchestrated by God. 2. Human Weakness and Temptation Samson's desire for a Philistine woman, as seen in Judges 14:2-3, reflects human susceptibility to temptation and the struggle between personal desires and divine commandments. The Hebrew word "יָשַׁר" (yashar), meaning "right" or "pleasing," indicates Samson's subjective judgment rather than adherence to God's law. 3. Conflict with Cultural Norms Samson's choice to marry a Philistine woman challenges the cultural and religious norms of Israel, as seen in Judges 14:3. This theme explores the tension between cultural integration and maintaining distinctiveness as God's people. 4. The Spirit of the Lord Empowering Individuals Judges 14:6 states, "The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him," highlighting the theme of divine empowerment. The Hebrew word "צָלַח" (tsalach), meaning "to rush" or "to come mightily," underscores the supernatural strength given to Samson. 5. Riddles and Wisdom The riddle posed by Samson in Judges 14:12-14 serves as a theme of wisdom and understanding. It reflects the use of intellect and cunning in the narrative, as well as the consequences of revealing secrets. 6. Betrayal and Deception The actions of Samson's wife in Judges 14:17, who "wept the whole seven days of the feast," leading to Samson revealing the answer to his riddle, illustrate themes of betrayal and deception. This theme is further emphasized by the Hebrew root "בָּגַד" (bagad), meaning "to act treacherously." 7. Retribution and Justice The events following the revelation of the riddle, where Samson takes revenge on the Philistines in Judges 14:19, highlight the theme of retribution and justice. This reflects the cycle of vengeance and the pursuit of justice in the narrative. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could one man realistically kill a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:5–6)? 3. Why does Samson, who is under a Nazirite vow, freely handle the lion’s remains (Judges 14:8–9)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Samson's demand to marry a Philistine woman contradict the Israelite laws of his time? Discuss the potential implications of his decision. 2. Analyze the symbolic meaning of Samson tearing the lion apart. How does this connect to the overall narrative of his life? 3. Discuss the significance of the riddle in Judges 14. How does it relate to the themes of secrets, strength, and betrayal? 4. Why did Samson keep the source of the honey a secret from his parents? 5. How does Samson's wife respond to the Philistines' threats? What might this tell us about her situation and the cultural context of the time? 6. Analyze the concept of loyalty in Judges 14. Discuss how loyalty is shown or betrayed by different characters. 7. Compare and contrast Samson's strength and his vulnerability. How does this paradox play out in Judges 14? 8. How do the events of Judges 14 reflect the consequences of deceit? Discuss in light of both Samson's wife's actions and the Philistine men. 9. Can you identify instances of divine intervention in Judges 14? How do these shape the course of events? 10. If you were in Samson's position, how would you have handled the betrayal by your spouse? 11. Reflect on a time in your life where you felt your strength became your weakness. How can you relate to Samson's story? 12. How does Samson's reaction to the riddle's resolution reflect on his character? Was his response justified? 13. How might the story of Judges 14 be relevant in today's context about interfaith and intercultural marriages? 14. How do you think Samson's parents felt throughout this narrative? Discuss their potential perspectives and reactions. 15. How do the themes of love and betrayal interact in Judges 14? Discuss in light of modern relationships. 16. Discuss the concept of retribution in Judges 14. Is revenge a justifiable response according to this narrative? How would this align or conflict with Christian values today? 17. If you were Samson's wife, would you have acted differently under the Philistine men's pressure? Explain your reasoning. 18. Reflect on the role of women in Judges 14. How does their portrayal contribute to the story and the lessons it offers? 19. How does Judges 14 help us understand the complexity of human emotions and relationships? Discuss in light of a personal experience. 20. Drawing from Judges 14, how can we navigate situations where our loved ones make choices we don't agree with? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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