Biblical Reference: Judges 14:12-18

Context: Samson, a judge of Israel, is known for his extraordinary strength, which is attributed to his Nazirite vow to God. His life is marked by a series of conflicts with the Philistines, who were oppressors of Israel during this period. The riddle episode occurs during the events surrounding Samson's marriage to a Philistine woman from Timnah.

The Riddle: During the wedding feast, Samson presents a riddle to thirty Philistine companions. The riddle is a result of an earlier encounter where Samson killed a lion with his bare hands. Later, he found a swarm of bees and honey in the carcass of the lion. The riddle he poses is: "Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet" (Judges 14:14).

Wager and Outcome: Samson proposes a wager: if the Philistines can solve the riddle within seven days of the feast, he will give them thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes. If they cannot solve it, they must give him the same. The Philistines, unable to solve the riddle, coerce Samson's wife into extracting the answer from him. She succeeds, and the Philistines answer the riddle on the seventh day: "What is sweeter than honey? And what is stronger than a lion?" (Judges 14:18).

Samson's Reaction: Realizing he has been betrayed, Samson responds with anger. He goes to Ashkelon, kills thirty men, and gives their garments to those who had solved the riddle. This act of vengeance marks the beginning of a series of conflicts between Samson and the Philistines.

Theological Significance: Samson's riddle is more than a mere puzzle; it symbolizes the enigmatic and paradoxical nature of God's dealings with Israel and their enemies. The riddle, derived from a personal experience of divine empowerment, reflects the hidden wisdom and strength that God can bring out of seemingly dire situations. It also foreshadows the ongoing struggle between Israel and the Philistines, highlighting themes of betrayal, divine justice, and the consequences of personal weaknesses.

Moral and Ethical Considerations: The episode underscores the dangers of compromising one's values and the consequences of succumbing to external pressures. Samson's impulsive nature and his susceptibility to manipulation by his Philistine wife serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of discernment and faithfulness to God's calling.

Cultural and Historical Context: The riddle reflects the ancient Near Eastern tradition of using riddles as a form of entertainment and intellectual challenge. It also illustrates the cultural tensions between the Israelites and the Philistines, as well as the personal conflicts that arise from intermarriage and alliances with those outside the covenant community.

Symbolism: The lion, a symbol of strength, and the honey, a symbol of sweetness, together represent the dual nature of God's deliverance—strength in overcoming enemies and the sweetness of victory and provision. The riddle encapsulates the mystery of God's ways, which often defy human understanding but ultimately serve His purposes.