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
The phrase begins with the acknowledgment of divine intervention. The Hebrew word for God here is "Elohim," which emphasizes God's power and sovereignty. This sets the stage for understanding that the events to follow are not mere coincidences but acts of divine will. In the context of Judges, where Israel repeatedly falls into sin and cries out for deliverance, this highlights God's faithfulness and mercy despite human failure.

split open
The Hebrew root for "split open" is "bāqa'," which conveys a forceful action, often used in the context of miraculous events. This word choice underscores the supernatural nature of the event, reminiscent of God parting the Red Sea in Exodus. It signifies God's ability to provide and make a way where there seems to be none, reinforcing His role as a provider and sustainer.

the hollow place in Lehi
"Lehi" means "jawbone" in Hebrew, and it is significant as the site of Samson's victory over the Philistines with a donkey's jawbone. The "hollow place" suggests a natural depression or cavity, which God uses to bring forth water. This location, associated with a previous victory, becomes a place of sustenance and renewal, symbolizing how God can transform places of conflict into sources of life.

and water came out of it
Water, in biblical symbolism, often represents life, cleansing, and the Holy Spirit. The provision of water from the rock is reminiscent of Moses striking the rock in the wilderness (Exodus 17:6), highlighting God's continuous provision for His people. This miracle serves as a physical manifestation of God's care and a reminder of His ability to meet our needs in the most unexpected ways.

When Samson drank
Samson's act of drinking signifies acceptance and reliance on God's provision. It is a moment of humility and dependence, acknowledging that his strength and survival come from God alone. This act can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual renewal, where believers are invited to "drink" from the living water that Christ offers (John 4:14).

his strength returned and he revived
The restoration of Samson's strength is both physical and symbolic. The Hebrew word for "revived" is "ḥāyāh," meaning to live or to be restored to life. This revival is a testament to God's power to restore and renew, even when we are at our weakest. It serves as an encouragement that God can rejuvenate our spirits and empower us for His purposes.

That is why he named it En-hakkore
"En-hakkore" means "Spring of the Caller" in Hebrew. Naming the place serves as a memorial to God's provision and Samson's prayer. It is a testament to the power of calling upon God in times of need and His faithfulness to respond. This name serves as a lasting reminder of the relationship between God and His people, where He hears and answers their cries.

and it remains in Lehi to this day
The phrase "to this day" indicates the lasting impact of God's intervention. It suggests that the site became a landmark of divine faithfulness, a tangible reminder for future generations of God's miraculous provision. This enduring presence serves as a call to remember and trust in God's unchanging nature and His ability to provide for His people throughout history.

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.