The Riddle at the Feast is a notable event found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 14. This episode involves Samson, one of the most prominent judges of Israel, known for his extraordinary strength and complex character. The riddle is a key element in the narrative of Samson's marriage to a Philistine woman, which ultimately sets the stage for a series of conflicts between Samson and the Philistines.

Context and Background

The account of the riddle takes place during a period when the Israelites were under Philistine oppression. Samson, a Nazirite from birth, was chosen by God to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines (Judges 13:5). Despite his divine calling, Samson's life is marked by personal flaws and impulsive decisions, which are evident in his interactions with the Philistines.

The Feast and the Riddle

In Judges 14, Samson travels to Timnah, where he becomes enamored with a Philistine woman. Despite his parents' objections, he insists on marrying her, saying, "Get her for me, for she is pleasing to my eyes" (Judges 14:3). During the wedding feast, which was a customary seven-day celebration, Samson poses a riddle to thirty Philistine companions. The riddle is based on a personal experience he had on his way to Timnah, where he killed a lion and later found bees and honey in its carcass.

The riddle Samson presents is: "Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet" (Judges 14:14). He offers a wager: if the Philistines can solve the riddle within the 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' Scheme

Unable to solve the riddle, the Philistines coerce Samson's wife into extracting the answer from him by threatening her and her family. On the seventh day, she pleads with Samson, and he eventually reveals the answer to her. She, in turn, tells the Philistines, who confront Samson with the solution: "What is sweeter than honey? And what is stronger than a lion?" (Judges 14:18).

Samson's Reaction and Aftermath

Realizing he has been betrayed, Samson responds with anger, saying, "If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have solved my riddle" (Judges 14:18). In a fit of rage, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon him, and he goes to Ashkelon, where he kills thirty men, takes their belongings, and gives their clothes to those who had solved the riddle. This act of vengeance marks the beginning of a series of violent encounters between Samson and the Philistines.

Theological and Moral Implications

The Riddle at the Feast highlights several themes and lessons. It underscores the consequences of Samson's impulsive nature and his failure to adhere to his Nazirite vows. The episode also illustrates the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines, serving as a catalyst for the conflict that follows. From a theological perspective, the event demonstrates God's sovereignty and ability to use even flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes. Despite Samson's personal failings, God uses him to begin the deliverance of Israel from Philistine domination, fulfilling the divine plan outlined before his birth.