Lexical Summary Sampsón: Samson Original Word: Σαμψών Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Samson. Of Hebrew origin (Shimshown); Sampson (i.e. Shimshon), an Israelite -- Samson. see HEBREW Shimshown NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof Hebrew origin Shimshon Definition Samson, a judge in Isr. NASB Translation Samson (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4546: ΣαμψώνΣαμψών (שִׁמְשׁון from שֶׁמֶשׁ, 'sun-like', cf. Hebrew אִישׁון from אִישׁ) (Buttmann, 15 (14)), ὁ, Samson (Vulg. Samson), one of the Israelite judges (שֹׁפְטִים), famous for his strength and courage, the Hebrew Hercules (cf. BB. DD.; McClintock and Strong's Cyclopaedia, Topical Lexicon Entry for Strong’s Greek 4546 – Samson (Σαμψών) Old Testament Background Samson emerges in the Book of Judges as the final major judge of Israel (Judges 13–16). Announced before birth to his barren mother by the Angel of the LORD, he was set apart as a Nazirite “from the womb” (Judges 13:5). His life unfolds in three movements: miraculous birth, exploits empowered by the Spirit of the LORD, and eventual downfall that nevertheless culminates in deliverance for Israel from Philistine oppression. Key Episodes • Birth and Nazirite call: Judges 13:1–25 New Testament Usage Samson is named once in the Greek New Testament, Hebrews 11:32, within the so-called “Hall of Faith.” The writer groups him with Gideon, Barak, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and “the prophets,” affirming that “through faith they conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and obtained what was promised.” His inclusion underscores that even flawed individuals may become instruments of God’s redemptive purposes through faith. Theological Significance 1. Divine Sovereignty in Weakness: Samson’s account illustrates how the LORD can accomplish His purposes even through a judge whose personal life is inconsistent. Christological Foreshadowing While Samson contrasts sharply with the sinless Messiah, certain parallels anticipate Christ: Lessons for Ministry • Gifts are not substitutes for holiness; anointing must be matched by obedience. Historical and Cultural Impact Samson became a symbol of national deliverance in Jewish tradition and a figure of spiritual strength in Christian art and preaching. Early church fathers cited him to warn against sensuality while highlighting divine grace. In hymnody and literature he often represents the struggle between flesh and spirit. Practical Applications for Believers • Guard consecration: Samson’s Nazirite vow teaches the value of set-apart devotion. Related References Judges 13–16; Hebrews 11:32; compare Romans 6:6; 1 Corinthians 10:11; Galatians 5:16–25. Forms and Transliterations Σαμψων Σαμψών Sampson Sampsōn SampsṓnLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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