What is the meaning of Judges 14:10? Then his father went to visit the woman • The verse opens with Manoah, Samson’s father, traveling to see the Philistine woman Samson desired (Judges 14:1-3). • In ancient Israel the father’s presence validated the betrothal, echoing earlier patterns—Jacob accompanied by his father’s servants in arranging Rebekah’s marriage (Genesis 24:50-51), and Shechem’s father Hamor negotiating for Dinah (Genesis 34:4-6). • Manoah’s participation shows parental oversight even when the son’s choice was questionable, illustrating Proverbs 22:6; parents remain involved though the adult child bears responsibility for his decisions. Samson prepared a feast there • A wedding feast in that era commonly lasted seven days (Genesis 29:27; Judges 14:12), filled with food, music, and celebration. • Samson himself takes charge, signaling his acceptance of the union despite its Philistine context. Compare Boaz providing grain and joy at his own marriage (Ruth 3:15; 4:13). • The setting in Timnah, a Philistine town, hints at tension: Israel’s judge mingles with Israel’s oppressors (Judges 13:1). His Nazirite calling (Numbers 6:1-8) contrasts with a feast likely featuring wine, foreshadowing further compromise (Judges 14:17). as was customary for the bridegroom • The text clarifies this was standard practice, not extravagance. Bridegrooms should supply hospitality (John 2:1-10; Matthew 22:1-4). • Customs helped knit families together; festive covenant meals appear with Isaac (Genesis 26:30) and at covenant ratifications (Exodus 24:11). • Yet the phrase also highlights Samson’s conformity to culture while neglecting separation from pagan influence, fulfilling earlier warning in Exodus 34:12-16. summary Judges 14:10 captures a pivotal moment: Manoah confirms Samson’s Philistine betrothal, Samson hosts the traditional week-long wedding feast, and the narrative stresses that everything followed accepted custom. The verse illustrates normal societal patterns while exposing Samson’s willingness to blend into Philistine life, setting the stage for conflicts that arise from a judge of Israel living by cultural custom rather than by his Nazirite calling and Israel’s covenant distinctiveness. |
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