And Samson’s wife
This phrase introduces a pivotal character in Samson's narrative. In the Hebrew context, marriage was a covenantal relationship, deeply significant and binding. Samson's wife, a Philistine woman, represents a union that was controversial and against the traditional Israelite customs, which discouraged intermarriage with pagan nations. This marriage symbolizes the tension between Israel and the Philistines and foreshadows the personal and national conflicts that arise from such unions.

was given
The phrase "was given" indicates a transfer of possession or responsibility, often seen in ancient Near Eastern cultures where women were considered part of familial property. This action reflects the patriarchal society of the time, where women had limited agency. The passive construction suggests that Samson's wife had little say in the matter, highlighting the cultural norms and the lack of autonomy for women in that era.

to one of the men
This phrase suggests a specific, yet unnamed individual among Samson's companions. The anonymity of the man underscores the betrayal and the impersonal nature of the transaction. Historically, this reflects the practice of levirate-like arrangements or the reassignment of a woman to another man within the community, which was not uncommon in ancient societies to ensure social stability and continuity.

who had accompanied him
The men who accompanied Samson were likely Philistines, as the context of the narrative places Samson in Philistine territory. This phrase highlights the betrayal and the breakdown of trust, as these were men who had been part of Samson's wedding celebration. The historical context reveals the fragile alliances and the deep-seated enmity between the Israelites and the Philistines, which often led to such personal and communal betrayals.

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. His life is marked by personal weaknesses and failures, yet he is used by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

2. Samson's Wife
A Philistine woman from Timnah whom Samson marries. Her relationship with Samson is fraught with betrayal and manipulation, ultimately leading to her being given to another man.

3. The Companion
One of the men who had accompanied Samson, likely one of the thirty companions assigned to him during his wedding feast. This man is given Samson's wife after Samson leaves in anger.

4. Timnah
A Philistine town where Samson's wife is from. It serves as the backdrop for much of the conflict between Samson and the Philistines.

5. The Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel during the time of the Judges. They play a significant role in the account of Samson's life.The Consequences of Unequally Yoked Relationships
Samson's marriage to a Philistine woman, against his parents' wishes and God's law, leads to personal and communal strife. Believers are reminded of the importance of aligning their relationships with God's will.

The Dangers of Anger and Impulsivity
Samson's impulsive actions and anger lead to unintended consequences. Christians are encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in managing emotions and making decisions.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Failure
Despite Samson's personal failures, God uses his life to fulfill His purposes. This teaches that God can work through our weaknesses and mistakes to accomplish His plans.

The Importance of Faithfulness in Relationships
The betrayal in Samson's marriage highlights the need for faithfulness and integrity in relationships. Believers are called to uphold these values in their own lives.(20) To his companion, whom he had used as his friend--i.e., to the chief of the paranyraphs (the bride-conductor, LXX.); "the friend of the bride-groom" (John 3:29). Hence, even if the suspicion as to the meaning of Samson's words in Judges 14:18 be unfounded, it is clear that there was treachery and secret hostility at work. Bunsen renders the phrase, "to his companion, whose friend (amica) she was."

Verse 20. - His companion - no doubt his "best man," the "friend of the bridegroom." The parents of the Thimnathite, having no doubt obtained Samson's dower, and supposing him to have finally broken with his treacherous wife, proceeded to give her in marriage to the Philistine young man who had been Samson's friend - perhaps the man to whom she had told the riddle. The sad end of this unhappy alliance fully justified the opposition of Samson's parents to it in ver. 3.

Parallel Commentaries ...

and his
שִׁמְשׁ֑וֹן (šim·šō·wn)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 8123: Samson -- a deliverer of Israel

wife
אֵ֣שֶׁת (’ê·šeṯ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 802: Woman, wife, female

was given
וַתְּהִ֖י (wat·tə·hî)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

to one of the men who
אֲשֶׁ֥ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

had accompanied
רֵעָ֖ה (rê·‘āh)
Verb - Piel - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7462: To tend a, flock, pasture it, in, to graze, to rule, to associate with

him.
לֽוֹ׃ (lōw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's Hebrew


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OT History: Judges 14:20 But Samson's wife was given to his (Jd Judg. Jdg)