Judges 15:6

"Who did this?" the Philistines demanded. "It was Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite," they were told. "For his wife was given to his companion." So the Philistines went up and burned her and her father to death.

Study Bible

Who did this?
This phrase reflects the Philistines' immediate reaction to the destruction of their crops, which Samson had set on fire. The Philistines, a seafaring people known for their conflicts with Israel, were quick to seek the source of their misfortune. The question underscores the tension and hostility between the Philistines and the Israelites during this period. Historically, the Philistines were a dominant force in the region, often oppressing the Israelites, which sets the stage for the cycle of vengeance seen in the narrative.

the Philistines demanded
The Philistines' demand for answers indicates their authority and control over the region at the time. The Hebrew root for "demanded" suggests a forceful inquiry, reflecting their aggressive nature. This demand also highlights the Philistines' reliance on retribution as a means of maintaining power and control, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures.

It was Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite
Samson, a judge of Israel, is identified here as the perpetrator. His designation as "the son-in-law of the Timnite" ties him to the Philistine community through marriage, illustrating the complex personal and political relationships of the time. The mention of the "Timnite" refers to a man from Timnah, a Philistine city, indicating the intermingling of Israelite and Philistine lives despite their enmity. This relationship becomes a catalyst for the ensuing conflict.

they were told
This passive construction suggests that the information was relayed to the Philistines, possibly by someone within their own ranks or an Israelite informant. It reflects the communication networks of the time and the spread of information, which often fueled conflicts. The phrase also implies a sense of inevitability, as the Philistines are now armed with the knowledge needed to exact revenge.

For his wife was given to his companion
This phrase reveals the personal betrayal that motivated Samson's actions. His wife being given to another man, likely a friend or associate, was a grave insult and breach of trust. In the cultural context, marriage alliances were significant, and such a betrayal would have been seen as a deep personal and social affront. This act of giving Samson's wife to another man underscores the lack of respect the Philistines had for Samson, further inflaming tensions.

So the Philistines went up and burned her and her father to death
The Philistines' response is brutal and swift, reflecting the harsh realities of ancient justice and retribution. The act of burning is significant, as fire was often used in the ancient world as a means of punishment and purification. This violent retribution highlights the cycle of vengeance that characterizes much of the narrative in Judges. It also serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of personal and political conflicts, illustrating the destructive nature of sin and the need for divine intervention and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel during the time of the Judges. They were known for their advanced weaponry and frequent conflicts with the Israelites.

3. The Timnite
Refers to the father of Samson's wife, who was from Timnah, a Philistine city. His actions and decisions played a role in the unfolding events.

4. Samson's Wife
Initially married to Samson, she was given to another man, which led to a series of retaliatory actions by Samson.

5. The Burning
The Philistines' act of burning Samson's wife and her father was a brutal response to Samson's actions, highlighting the cycle of vengeance and violence.

Teaching Points

The Cycle of Vengeance
The account illustrates the destructive nature of revenge. As Christians, we are called to break this cycle by forgiving others and trusting God to bring justice.

Consequences of Disobedience
Samson's life shows the consequences of straying from God's commands. His personal choices led to suffering for himself and others.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human failings, God's purposes prevail. Samson's actions, though flawed, were used by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

The Cost of Sin
The tragic end of Samson's wife and her father serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of sin and disobedience.

Trust in God's Justice
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's perfect justice rather than taking matters into their own hands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the cycle of vengeance in Judges 15:6 reflect the broader theme of justice and retribution in the Bible?

2. In what ways can Samson's life serve as a warning about the consequences of personal disobedience to God's commands?

3. How does the account of Samson and the Philistines illustrate the principle found in Romans 12:19 about leaving vengeance to God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the tragic outcome for Samson's wife and her father regarding the impact of our choices on others?

5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's justice in our own lives, especially when wronged by others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 14
Provides background on Samson's marriage to the Timnite woman and the events leading to the conflict with the Philistines.

Exodus 21:24
The principle of "an eye for an eye" can be seen in the cycle of retaliation between Samson and the Philistines.

Romans 12:19
Offers a New Testament perspective on vengeance, urging believers to leave vengeance to God.