Judges 14:15

So on the fourth day they said to Samson's wife, "Entice your husband to explain the riddle to us, or we will burn you and your father's household to death. Did you invite us here to rob us?"

Study Bible

So on the fourth day
The phrase "on the fourth day" indicates a specific time frame within the seven-day wedding feast, a customary celebration in ancient Israelite culture. The number four in biblical numerology often symbolizes completeness or universality. This timing suggests a culmination of tension and impatience among the Philistine guests, who were unable to solve Samson's riddle. Historically, the wedding feast was a time of joy and celebration, but here it becomes a setting for conflict and manipulation.

they said to Samson’s wife
The Philistines addressing Samson's wife highlights the cultural and social dynamics of the time. Women often held a position where they could be easily manipulated or coerced, reflecting the patriarchal society of ancient Israel. Samson's wife, a Philistine, is caught between her loyalty to her people and her new husband. This phrase underscores the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines, as well as the personal conflict faced by Samson's wife.

Entice your husband
The word "entice" suggests seduction or persuasion, often with a negative connotation. In Hebrew, the root word can imply deception or leading someone astray. This reflects the moral and ethical challenges present in the narrative, as Samson's wife is pressured to betray her husband. The use of this word highlights the theme of manipulation and deceit that runs throughout the account of Samson.

to explain the riddle to us
The riddle posed by Samson is central to the narrative, symbolizing the mystery and strength of Samson himself. In ancient cultures, riddles were a form of entertainment and intellectual challenge, but here it becomes a source of conflict. The demand for an explanation reveals the Philistines' desperation and their inability to match Samson's wit, further emphasizing the cultural and spiritual divide between the Israelites and the Philistines.

or we will burn you and your father’s household to death
This threat of violence reveals the brutal and oppressive nature of the Philistines. Fire, often a symbol of judgment and destruction in the Bible, underscores the severity of the threat. Historically, such acts of violence were not uncommon in ancient times, reflecting the harsh realities of life in the ancient Near East. This phrase highlights the stakes involved and the lengths to which the Philistines are willing to go to maintain their pride and avoid humiliation.

Did you invite us here to rob us?
The accusation of being "robbed" suggests a perceived betrayal and loss of honor. In the context of the wedding feast, the guests feel deceived by the unsolvable riddle, which they see as a trick to take their possessions. This reflects the cultural importance of honor and reputation in ancient societies. The rhetorical question implies a breach of hospitality and trust, further intensifying the conflict between Samson and the Philistines.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God. He was a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God, and his life is a series of conflicts with the Philistines.

2. Philistine Woman
Samson's wife, whom he married against his parents' wishes. She was from Timnah, a Philistine city, and her relationship with Samson is central to the events of Judges 14.

3. Philistines
The ruling people over Israel at the time, often in conflict with the Israelites. They are the antagonists in the account of Samson.

4. Timnah
A Philistine city where Samson's wife lived. It is the setting for the events of Judges 14, including the wedding feast and the riddle.

5. Riddle
Samson posed a riddle to the Philistines during his wedding feast, which they could not solve without the help of his wife. The riddle was a source of conflict and a catalyst for the events that followed.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Unequally Yoked Relationships
Samson's marriage to a Philistine woman serves as a cautionary tale about forming close relationships with those who do not share the same faith and values.

The Consequences of Compromise
Samson's willingness to compromise his Nazirite vows and his association with the Philistines led to personal and national consequences.

The Power of Influence
The account illustrates how those closest to us can influence our decisions, for better or worse, and the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly influences.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Failure
Despite Samson's personal failings, God used the situation to fulfill His purposes against the Philistines, demonstrating His sovereignty.

The Importance of Wisdom and Discernment
Samson's lack of discernment in his relationships and decisions serves as a reminder to seek God's wisdom in all areas of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's choice of a Philistine wife reflect on his commitment to his Nazirite vow and his relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we see the influence of Samson's wife and the Philistines affecting his decisions? How can we apply this understanding to our own relationships?

3. How does the account of Samson and his wife in Judges 14:15 connect with the warnings found in Proverbs 7 and 1 Corinthians 15:33?

4. What does this passage teach us about the consequences of compromising our values and beliefs? How can we guard against such compromises in our own lives?

5. How can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of Samson's personal failures, and how does this encourage us in our own struggles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 16
The account of Samson and Delilah, which parallels the manipulation and betrayal seen in Judges 14:15, highlighting the recurring theme of Samson's vulnerability to Philistine women.

Proverbs 7
Offers wisdom on the dangers of being led astray by seductive and manipulative influences, similar to the situation Samson faced with his wife.

1 Corinthians 15:33
Warns about the influence of bad company, which is relevant to Samson's interactions with the Philistines and his choice of a Philistine wife.