Judges 15:2

"I was sure that you thoroughly hated her," said her father, "so I gave her to one of the men who accompanied you. Is not her younger sister more beautiful than she? Please take her instead."

Study Bible

I was sure you thoroughly hated her
This phrase reflects the father of Samson's wife speaking to Samson. The Hebrew root for "sure" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a strong conviction or assumption. The father assumed Samson's feelings without direct communication, highlighting a breakdown in relationships and the dangers of assumptions. This reflects a broader biblical theme of misunderstanding and miscommunication leading to conflict, as seen throughout the Judges narrative.

he said
The phrase "he said" (וַיֹּאמֶר, vayomer) is a common Hebrew narrative device, indicating direct speech. It emphasizes the personal nature of the communication and the importance of dialogue in resolving or escalating conflicts. In the context of Judges, it often introduces pivotal moments where human decisions intersect with divine plans.

so I gave her to your companion
The act of giving Samson's wife to his companion (רֵעֶה, re'eh) underscores the cultural practices of marriage and property rights in ancient Israel. Women were often treated as property, and this action reflects the patriarchal society of the time. It also sets the stage for Samson's subsequent actions, illustrating how personal grievances can lead to larger conflicts.

Is not her younger sister more beautiful than she?
This rhetorical question highlights the cultural emphasis on physical beauty and the practice of offering a younger sister in marriage, which was not uncommon in ancient times. The comparison between sisters (יָפָה, yaphah) underscores societal values and the objectification of women, which is a recurring issue in the narrative of Judges.

Please take her instead
The plea "please take her" (קַח־נָא, qach-na) is an attempt at reconciliation, albeit through means that reflect the cultural norms of the time. The father's offer is pragmatic, aiming to appease Samson and avoid further conflict. This reflects the human tendency to seek peace through compromise, even when it involves morally questionable decisions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. He was a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God, and his life was marked by conflict with the Philistines.

2. Samson's Father-in-law
The father of Samson's wife, who made the decision to give her to another man, believing Samson had rejected her.

3. Samson's Wife
Initially married to Samson, she was given to another man by her father, which led to further conflict between Samson and the Philistines.

4. Philistines
The primary adversaries of Israel during Samson's time. They were a powerful and oppressive force against whom Samson frequently fought.

5. Timnah
The location where Samson's wife was from and where much of the conflict in this chapter takes place.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Impulsive Decisions
Samson's choice to marry a Philistine woman led to a series of conflicts. This highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decisions, especially those that can have long-term consequences.

The Sanctity of Marriage
The actions of Samson's father-in-law in giving his daughter to another man violate the sanctity of marriage. This serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring marital commitments.

Handling Betrayal
Samson's response to betrayal was one of anger and vengeance. As Christians, we are called to respond to betrayal with forgiveness and to trust God for justice.

Cultural and Familial Pressures
The account illustrates how cultural and familial pressures can lead to actions that are contrary to God's will. We must be vigilant in aligning our actions with biblical principles, even when faced with external pressures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's reaction to his wife being given to another man reflect human nature, and what can we learn from it about handling personal grievances?

2. In what ways does the account of Samson and his wife illustrate the importance of making decisions that align with God's will?

3. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our own lives, especially when we feel wronged by others?

4. What does this passage teach us about the importance of honoring marriage vows, and how can we apply this in our relationships today?

5. How can we resist cultural and familial pressures that may lead us away from God's will, as seen in the actions of Samson's father-in-law?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 14
Provides context for Samson's marriage and the events leading up to Judges 15:2, including the riddle and the betrayal by his wife.

Matthew 19:6
Discusses the sanctity of marriage, which contrasts with the actions of Samson's father-in-law in giving his daughter to another man.

Romans 12:19
Speaks about leaving vengeance to God, which is relevant to Samson's response to the betrayal.