Judges 15:10

"Why have you attacked us?" said the men of Judah. The Philistines replied, "We have come to arrest Samson and pay him back for what he has done to us."

Study Bible

The men of Judah asked
This phrase introduces the men of Judah, who are part of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Historically, Judah was a significant tribe, often associated with leadership and strength. The men of Judah here are portrayed as seeking understanding and peace, reflecting a desire to avoid conflict. This reflects the broader biblical theme of seeking wisdom and understanding before taking action, as seen in Proverbs 4:7, "Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom."

Why have you attacked us?
This question reveals the confusion and fear among the men of Judah. The Hebrew root for "attacked" (פָּשַׁט, pashat) can also mean to strip or raid, indicating a sudden and aggressive action. The men of Judah are seeking clarity, which is a common biblical principle—seeking truth and understanding in the face of adversity. This reflects the human tendency to question and seek reasons for suffering or conflict, a theme prevalent throughout the Psalms.

They replied
The response comes from the Philistines, who were a constant threat to Israel during this period. The Philistines were a seafaring people, often at odds with the Israelites. This interaction highlights the ongoing tension and conflict between the Israelites and their neighbors, a recurring theme in the Old Testament that underscores the need for divine intervention and guidance.

We have come to arrest Samson
The Philistines' intent to arrest Samson indicates their recognition of his strength and the threat he posed. Samson, a judge of Israel, was known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. The Hebrew root for "arrest" (אָסַר, asar) means to bind or imprison, symbolizing the Philistines' desire to control and subdue what they could not understand or overpower. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's chosen leaders facing opposition and persecution.

and pay him back
This phrase reveals the Philistines' desire for vengeance, a common human response to being wronged. The concept of retribution is addressed throughout the Bible, with God often reminding His people that vengeance belongs to Him (Deuteronomy 32:35). This highlights the contrast between human justice and divine justice, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and timing.

for what he has done to us
The Philistines' motivation is rooted in retaliation for Samson's previous actions against them. This reflects the cycle of violence and retribution that often characterizes human conflict. In the biblical context, it serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking reconciliation and peace. The narrative encourages believers to break the cycle of vengeance through forgiveness and trust in God's justice, as taught by Jesus in the New Testament (Matthew 5:38-39).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, given by God, and his Nazirite vow. His actions often led to conflict with the Philistines.

2. Men of Judah
The tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, who were living under Philistine oppression at the time. They were concerned about the repercussions of Samson's actions.

3. Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel and often oppressed them. They sought to capture Samson because of his attacks against them.

4. Judah
A region in ancient Israel, representing the tribe of Judah, which was under Philistine control during this period.

5. Conflict
The ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Philistines, exacerbated by Samson's personal vendetta against the Philistines.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Sovereignty
Despite Samson's personal flaws and the Israelites' fear, God used these events to fulfill His purposes. We can trust that God is sovereign over our circumstances.

The Consequences of Fear
The men of Judah were more afraid of the Philistines than they were trusting in God's power. Fear can lead us to make decisions that compromise our faith.

The Cycle of Vengeance
Samson's actions and the Philistines' response illustrate the destructive cycle of vengeance. As Christians, we are called to break this cycle through forgiveness and trust in God's justice.

The Role of Leadership
Samson's leadership was marked by personal vendettas rather than seeking God's guidance. Effective leadership in the Christian life involves seeking God's will and leading others in faith.

God's Use of Imperfect People
Samson was far from perfect, yet God used him to deliver Israel. This reminds us that God can use us despite our imperfections.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of the men of Judah reflect our own fears when facing opposition, and how can we overcome this fear with faith?

2. In what ways does the cycle of vengeance seen in Samson's account manifest in our lives today, and how can we apply Romans 12:19 to break this cycle?

3. How does Samson's leadership compare to the leadership qualities described in 1 Timothy 3, and what can we learn from this comparison?

4. Reflect on a time when God used an imperfect situation or person in your life to accomplish His purposes. How does this encourage you in your walk with God?

5. How can we, as modern-day believers, ensure that our actions align with God's will rather than personal vendettas or desires?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 14:19
This verse provides context for the Philistines' desire to capture Samson, as it describes one of his earlier acts of vengeance against them.

Judges 16:28-30
These verses show the culmination of Samson's conflict with the Philistines, where he calls upon God for strength one last time.

Exodus 23:22
This verse speaks to the principle of God fighting for His people when they obey Him, contrasting with the Israelites' fear of the Philistines.

Romans 12:19
This New Testament verse advises believers to leave vengeance to God, contrasting with Samson's personal vendetta.