Judges 15:19

So God opened up the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned, and he was revived. That is why he named it En-hakkore, and it remains in Lehi to this day.

Study Bible

So God opened up the hollow place in Lehi
This phrase highlights God's direct intervention in response to Samson's need. The "hollow place" in Lehi refers to a geographical location, possibly a rock or a depression in the ground. This miraculous provision of water parallels other biblical instances where God provides water, such as when Moses struck the rock at Horeb (Exodus 17:6). The name "Lehi" means "jawbone," which is significant as it connects to the earlier event where Samson used a jawbone to defeat the Philistines (Judges 15:15).

and water came out of it
The provision of water is a recurring theme in Scripture, symbolizing God's sustenance and life-giving power. This event can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers "living water" (John 4:10) to those who are spiritually thirsty. The miraculous nature of the water coming forth underscores God's ability to provide for His people in seemingly impossible situations.

When Samson drank, his strength returned, and he was revived
Samson's physical revival after drinking the water signifies the restoration and renewal that comes from God's provision. This can be compared to spiritual renewal found in Christ, who strengthens believers (Philippians 4:13). The act of drinking and being revived also echoes the spiritual refreshment and strength that believers receive through the Holy Spirit.

That is why he named it En-hakkore
The name "En-hakkore" means "Spring of the Caller" or "Spring of the One who Calls." This naming reflects Samson's acknowledgment of God's response to his cry for help. Naming places after divine interventions was a common practice in biblical times, serving as a memorial of God's faithfulness and power (Genesis 28:19, where Jacob names Bethel).

and it remains in Lehi to this day
This phrase indicates the lasting impact of God's miracle, suggesting that the site became a known landmark. The mention of its continued existence serves as a testament to the historical reliability of the account and God's enduring faithfulness. It also implies that the story of God's provision was passed down through generations, reinforcing the importance of remembering and recounting God's deeds.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. In Judges 15:19, he is in a moment of desperation and need.

2. God
The divine being who responds to Samson's cry for help by providing water, demonstrating His provision and care for His people.

3. Lehi
The location where this event takes place. It is significant as the site of Samson's victory over the Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey, and now as a place of divine provision.

4. En-hakkore
The name given to the spring that God miraculously provides for Samson. It means "the caller's spring," highlighting the connection between Samson's plea and God's response.

5. Philistines
The enemies of Israel during Samson's time. Their oppression of Israel sets the stage for Samson's acts of deliverance.

Teaching Points

God's Provision in Times of Need
Just as God provided water for Samson, He is attentive to our needs and provides for us in our times of desperation.

The Power of Prayer
Samson's cry to God is a reminder of the importance and power of prayer. God hears and responds to the sincere prayers of His people.

Naming as a Testament of Faith
The naming of En-hakkore serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and a reminder of His provision. We should remember and testify to God's work in our lives.

Dependence on God
Samson's experience teaches us about the necessity of relying on God rather than our own strength, especially after significant victories or challenges.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Weakness
Despite Samson's flaws and failures, God remains faithful and provides for him, illustrating God's grace and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Samson in Judges 15:19 illustrate God's provision in times of need, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

2. In what ways does Samson's cry to God demonstrate the power and importance of prayer, and how can we incorporate this into our daily spiritual practice?

3. How does the naming of En-hakkore serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness, and what are some ways we can remember and testify to God's work in our lives?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in a moment of desperation. How did this experience strengthen your faith and reliance on God?

5. Considering Samson's account and God's response, how can we better understand and appreciate God's faithfulness despite our own weaknesses and failures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17:6
This passage describes God providing water from a rock for the Israelites in the wilderness, similar to how He provides for Samson in his time of need.

Psalm 34:17
This verse speaks of the Lord hearing the cries of the righteous and delivering them from their troubles, paralleling God's response to Samson's plea.

Isaiah 41:17-18
These verses promise God's provision for the needy, echoing the miraculous provision of water for Samson.