Judges 16:13

Then Delilah said to Samson, "You have mocked me and lied to me all along! Tell me how you can be tied up." He told her, "If you weave the seven braids of my head into the web of a loom and tighten it with a pin, I will become as weak as any other man."

Study Bible

Then Delilah said to Samson
This phrase introduces Delilah, a central figure in Samson's narrative. Her name, Delilah, is derived from the Hebrew root "dalal," meaning "to weaken or impoverish." This is fitting, as her actions lead to Samson's downfall. Delilah's role is pivotal in the story, representing temptation and betrayal. Historically, Delilah is often seen as a Philistine, though the text does not explicitly state her nationality. Her relationship with Samson is complex, marked by manipulation and deceit.

Until now you have mocked me and lied to me
Delilah accuses Samson of deception, highlighting the tension in their relationship. The Hebrew word for "mocked" is "hathal," which can also mean to deceive or make sport of. This reflects the ongoing battle of wits between Samson and Delilah. In a broader scriptural context, this interaction underscores the theme of trust and betrayal, a recurring motif in the Bible. Delilah's persistence is a testament to her determination to uncover Samson's secret, driven by the Philistine leaders' promise of silver.

Tell me how you can be tied up
Delilah's request is direct and persistent, emphasizing her role as an agent of the Philistines. The phrase "tied up" in Hebrew is "asar," meaning to bind or imprison. This is symbolic of the spiritual and physical bondage that sin can create. Delilah's insistence on discovering Samson's weakness is a reminder of the relentless nature of temptation and the importance of vigilance in one's spiritual life.

He replied, 'If you weave the seven braids of my head
Samson's response involves the "seven braids" of his hair, which are significant. The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection. Samson's hair is the source of his Nazirite vow and strength, representing his consecration to God. By mentioning his hair, Samson is dangerously close to revealing the true source of his strength, indicating a lapse in his judgment and spiritual discernment.

into the fabric on the loom and tighten it with a pin
The imagery of weaving his hair into a loom is rich with symbolism. Weaving, in ancient cultures, was a meticulous and deliberate process, often associated with creation and artistry. The act of weaving Samson's hair into a loom suggests entanglement and the loss of freedom. The "pin" used to tighten the fabric signifies the finality and binding nature of sin when one is ensnared by temptation.

I will become as weak as any other man
Samson's statement reveals his awareness of his unique strength and the consequences of losing it. The phrase "as weak as any other man" underscores the idea that without God's empowerment, Samson is no different from any other person. This serves as a powerful reminder of the source of true strength and the dangers of taking God's gifts for granted. In the broader biblical narrative, it highlights the theme of human frailty and the need for divine dependence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was linked to his Nazirite vow and uncut hair. He is a central figure in the account of Judges 16.

2. Delilah
A woman from the Valley of Sorek who is persuaded by the Philistine rulers to discover the secret of Samson's strength. Her interactions with Samson lead to his eventual downfall.

3. Philistines
The enemies of Israel during the time of the Judges. They sought to capture and subdue Samson, who had been a significant threat to them.

4. Valley of Sorek
The location where Delilah lived and where much of the interaction between her and Samson took place.

5. Nazirite Vow
A special vow taken by individuals in Israel to set themselves apart for God. It included abstaining from wine, avoiding contact with dead bodies, and not cutting one's hair.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Samson's repeated interactions with Delilah illustrate the peril of compromising one's values and commitments. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith and commitments to God.

The Power of Influence
Delilah's influence over Samson shows how powerful and potentially destructive personal relationships can be. Christians should seek relationships that encourage spiritual growth and accountability.

God's Sovereignty and Human Weakness
Despite Samson's failures, God's purposes were ultimately fulfilled. This reminds us that God can work through our weaknesses and failures to accomplish His will.

Guarding the Heart
Samson's account is a cautionary tale about guarding one's heart against deceit and temptation. Believers are encouraged to be vigilant and discerning in their relationships and choices.

The Importance of Obedience
Samson's downfall was tied to his disobedience to the Nazirite vow. Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining spiritual strength and integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's relationship with Delilah reflect the dangers of compromising one's faith and values? Can you identify similar situations in your own life?

2. In what ways can we guard our hearts against the influences that lead us away from God's will, as seen in Samson's account?

3. How does the concept of the Nazirite vow in Numbers 6 deepen our understanding of Samson's strength and his eventual downfall?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced temptation. How can 1 Corinthians 10:13 encourage you to seek God's help in overcoming future temptations?

5. What lessons can we learn from Samson's life about the importance of obedience and the consequences of disobedience? How can these lessons be applied in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 6
This chapter outlines the Nazirite vow, which is central to understanding Samson's life and the source of his strength.

Proverbs 7
Offers wisdom on the dangers of succumbing to seduction and temptation, paralleling Samson's experience with Delilah.

1 Corinthians 10:13
Discusses God's faithfulness in providing a way out of temptation, relevant to Samson's repeated tests with Delilah.