Judges 16:19

And having lulled him to sleep on her lap, she called a man to shave off the seven braids of his head. In this way she began to subdue him, and his strength left him.

Study Bible

After putting him to sleep on her lap
This phrase sets the stage for the betrayal of Samson by Delilah. The act of putting someone to sleep on one's lap is intimate and suggests a level of trust and vulnerability. In the Hebrew context, this act signifies a deep personal connection, which makes Delilah's betrayal even more poignant. Historically, this reflects the cunning and deceit often found in human relationships, especially when personal gain is at stake. The lap, a place of comfort, becomes a place of treachery, highlighting the theme of misplaced trust.

she called a man to shave off the seven braids of his hair
The act of shaving Samson's hair is significant because his hair was the symbol of his Nazirite vow to God, which was the source of his strength. The "seven braids" symbolize completeness and divine perfection in biblical numerology. The Hebrew root for "shave" (גָּלַח, galach) implies a complete removal, indicating the total loss of Samson's consecration to God. This act of shaving is not just physical but spiritual, representing the severing of Samson's covenant with God. Archaeologically, hair was often seen as a source of power and identity in ancient cultures, making this act a profound violation.

In this way she began to subdue him
The phrase "began to subdue him" indicates the start of Samson's downfall. The Hebrew root for "subdue" (עָנָה, anah) can mean to humble or afflict, suggesting that Samson's physical and spiritual strength is being systematically dismantled. This subjugation is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional, as Samson's strength was tied to his relationship with God. Historically, this reflects the broader theme of Israel's subjugation by foreign powers due to their disobedience to God.

and his strength left him
The departure of Samson's strength signifies the breaking of his Nazirite vow and the loss of God's favor. The Hebrew word for "strength" (כֹּחַ, koach) encompasses not just physical power but also the capacity to fulfill one's God-given purpose. This moment marks a turning point in Samson's life, where his physical prowess is stripped away, leaving him vulnerable. Scripturally, this serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from one's divine calling and the importance of faithfulness to God. Theologically, it underscores the belief that true strength comes from God, and without Him, even the mightiest fall.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God tied to his Nazirite vow, including not cutting his hair.

2. Delilah
A Philistine woman who was used by the Philistine rulers to discover the secret of Samson's strength. Her actions led to Samson's 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. Nazirite Vow
A special vow taken by individuals to be set apart for God, which included abstaining from cutting one's hair, consuming alcohol, and avoiding contact with dead bodies.

5. The Man
An unnamed individual called by Delilah to shave Samson's hair, symbolizing the breaking of his Nazirite vow and the loss of his God-given strength.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Samson's downfall began with small compromises, leading to a significant breach of his vow. Believers must guard against small compromises in their spiritual lives.

The Power of Influence
Delilah's influence over Samson shows the impact others can have on our spiritual journey. Choose relationships that encourage and strengthen your faith.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Samson's loss of strength was a direct result of breaking his vow. Disobedience to God's commands can lead to spiritual weakness and loss.

God's Sovereignty and Redemption
Despite Samson's failure, God used his life for His purposes. God can redeem our failures for His glory when we turn back to Him.

Vigilance in Spiritual Warfare
Samson's account is a reminder to remain vigilant in our spiritual lives, recognizing that the enemy seeks to exploit our weaknesses.

Bible Study Questions

1. What small compromises in your life could lead to a larger spiritual downfall, similar to Samson's?

2. How can you ensure that your relationships are positively influencing your walk with God?

3. In what ways have you experienced the consequences of disobedience, and how did you see God's hand in redeeming those situations?

4. How does understanding the Nazirite vow deepen your appreciation for the significance of Samson's hair and his strength?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually strong. What practices or habits contributed to that strength, and how can you maintain them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 13-15
These chapters provide the background of Samson's life, his Nazirite vow, and his feats of strength against the Philistines.

Numbers 6
This chapter outlines the Nazirite vow, which includes the prohibition against cutting one's hair, providing context for the significance of Samson's hair.

Proverbs 5
Offers wisdom on the dangers of succumbing to temptation and the deceitfulness of certain relationships, paralleling Samson's relationship with Delilah.

1 Corinthians 10:12
Warns believers to be cautious and not to fall, similar to how Samson, despite his strength, fell due to his vulnerability to Delilah's manipulation.