◄ Judges 15 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Samson’s Revenge 1Later on, at the time of the wheat harvest, Samson took a young goat and went to visit his wife. “I want to go to my wife in her room,” he said. But her father would not let him enter. 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.” 3Samson said to them, “This time I will be blameless in doing harm to the Philistines.” 4Then Samson went out and caught three hundred foxes. And he took torches, turned the foxes tail-to-tail, and fastened a torch between each pair of tails. 5Then he lit the torches and released the foxes into the standing grain of the Philistines, burning up the piles of grain and the standing grain, as well as the vineyards and olive groves. 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. 7And Samson told them, “Because you have done this, I will not rest until I have taken vengeance upon you.” 8And he struck them ruthlesslya with a great slaughter, and then went down and stayed in the cave at the rock of Etam. 9Then the Philistines went up, camped in Judah, and deployed themselves near the town of Lehi.b 10“Why have you attacked us?” said the men of Judah. The Philistines replied, “We have come to arrest Samson and pay him back for what he has done to us.” 11In response, three thousand men of Judah went to the cave at the rock of Etam, and they asked Samson, “Do you not realize that the Philistines rule over us? What have you done to us?” “I have done to them what they did to me,” he replied. 12But they said to him, “We have come down to arrest you and hand you over to the Philistines.” Samson replied, “Swear to me that you will not kill me yourselves.” 13“No,” they answered, “we will not kill you, but we will tie you up securely and hand you over to them.” So they bound him with two new ropes and led him up from the rock. 14When Samson arrived in Lehi, the Philistines came out shouting against him. And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him. The ropes on his arms became like burnt flax, and the bonds broke loose from his hands. 15He found the fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men. 16Then Samson said: “With the jawbone of a donkey I have piled them into heaps.c With the jawbone of a donkey I have slain a thousand men.” 17And when Samson had finished speaking, he cast the jawbone from his hand; and he named that place Ramath-lehi.d 18And being very thirsty, Samson cried out to the LORD, “You have accomplished this great deliverance through Your servant. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” 19So 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,e and it remains in Lehi to this day. 20And Samson judged Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines. Footnotes: 8 a Literally he struck them hip and thigh 9 b Literally and spread out in Lehi 16 c Or I have made them into donkeys 17 d Ramath-lehi means the hill of the jawbone. 19 e En-hakkore means the spring of him who calls. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Judges 15 Summary Samson's Revenge Verses 1–3 – Samson Visits His Wife and Faces Rejection After the wheat harvest Samson returns to Timnah to consummate his marriage, bringing a young goat as a gift. Her father, thinking Samson despised her, has given her to Samson’s best man. In anger Samson declares, “I will be blameless when I harm the Philistines” and leaves determined to retaliate. Verses 4–5 – Foxes and Fire Samson captures three hundred foxes, ties them tail-to-tail with torches, and releases them through Philistine grain, vineyards, and olive groves. The fire devastates the Philistine food supply and economy. Verses 6–8 – Philistine Retaliation and Samson’s Response The Philistines burn Samson’s wife and her father. Samson strikes back “hip and thigh with a great slaughter,” then withdraws to the cleft of the rock at Etam. Verses 9–13 – Judah Surrenders Samson Philistine troops camp in Judah to seize Samson. Three thousand men of Judah go to Etam, rebuking Samson for stirring conflict. Samson agrees to be bound and handed over as long as they promise not to kill him themselves. Verses 14–17 – Jawbone of a Donkey As Samson is brought to Lehi, “the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him.” The ropes fall like flax in fire, and Samson finds a fresh donkey’s jawbone. He strikes down a thousand Philistines, naming the place Ramath-lehi—“Jawbone Hill.” Verses 18–20 – Samson’s Thirst and God’s Provision Exhausted, Samson cries out, “You have granted this great deliverance… shall I now die of thirst?” God splits a hollow place in Lehi; water flows, Samson revives, and the spring is called En-hakkore—“Caller’s Spring.” Samson judges Israel twenty years during Philistine days. Judges 15, a stirring chapter in the Book of Judges, revolves around Samson's supernatural strength given by God and his confrontations with the Philistines. This chapter presents a compelling tale of divine intervention, a cycle of vengeance, faith, and a miraculous rescue from death. Verse by Verse Historical Setting Judges 15 occurs late in the era between Joshua and Samuel (c. 1100 BC). Israel lacks centralized leadership; “everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 21:25). Philistine city-states—Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gaza, Ekron, and Gath—dominate the coastal plain, pressing inland. Samson operates mainly in the Shephelah foothills, where Israelite villages meet Philistine garrisons. Philistine Oppression and Israel’s Compromise • Philistine control was economic and military. Their iron monopoly (1 Samuel 13:19-22) explains the panic when harvests burn. • Judah’s willingness to hand Samson over (v. 11-13) shows spiritual fatigue. Instead of crying to the LORD as in earlier cycles (Judges 3:9, 15; 4:3; 10:10), they prefer appeasement. • Samson stands almost alone, representing God’s resolve to save even when His people do not ask. Samson’s Nazarite Calling • From birth Samson was “a Nazirite of God” (Judges 13:5), set apart by three outward marks: no razor, no grape products, no corpse contact (Numbers 6). • In chapter 15 the vow’s symbol—unshorn hair—remains intact. His strength is not muscle mass but the LORD’s enabling (v. 14). • His unconventional weapons (torches, jawbone) highlight divine power “so that no one may boast” (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29). Cultural and Archaeological Notes • Foxes vs. Jackals: The Hebrew shû‘âl can mean either. Jackals travel in packs, making mass capture plausible. • Grain, vineyards, olives: the triad of ancient Near-Eastern staples (Deuteronomy 7:13; Hosea 2:8). Burning all three was economic warfare. • Lehi (“jawbone”) sits near modern-day ‘Ain-Hanniyeh, southwest of Bethlehem. Limestone clefts like Etam still dot the hills, offering natural hiding places. Literary Structure and Repetition Judges cycles through sin, oppression, cry, deliverance, rest. In Samson’s narrative the “cry” is muted; God initiates rescue anyway (Judges 13:5 “He will begin to deliver Israel”). Chapter 15 is the climax of personal vendetta turning into national salvation. The Spirit of the LORD in Judges • Othniel (3:10), Gideon (6:34), Jephthah (11:29), Samson (14:6, 19; 15:14) share the same verb: “came upon” or “rushed upon.” • The Spirit empowers specific acts for Israel’s rescue, not private glory. Despite Samson’s flaws, God’s purpose advances (cf. Romans 11:29 “God’s gifts and call are irrevocable”). Jawbone Hill: Geographical Insights The slope at Lehi offered high ground. Bronze-Age strata show fortified Philistine outposts. A fresh donkey carcass implies rural paths where beasts of burden died and scavengers had not yet stripped the bones. Foxes or Jackals? Zoological Note • Both species inhabit Palestine. A 300-animal roundup suggests traps rather than hand-catch. • Tying torches between two animals forced zig-zag panic, maximizing crop destruction without killing the animals instantly—ingenious guerrilla tactics. Application for Today • Zeal without surrender becomes vengeance; yet God can redirect even flawed passions into deliverance. • Spiritual compromise, like Judah’s capitulation, never buys lasting peace. • Crying out in need, as Samson did for water, is welcomed by God: “Whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst” (John 4:14). Connections to Other Scriptures • Burning fields echoes David’s later tactic against Absalom (2 Samuel 14:30). • Binding by countrymen parallels Jesus handed over by His own nation (John 18:35). • Water from the rock recalls Exodus 17:6 and foreshadows Christ, the Rock who gives living water (1 Corinthians 10:4). Foreshadowing of Christ Samson’s solitary deliverance, betrayal by his people, and victory through weakness anticipate Jesus: • Betrayed yet conquering (Isaiah 53:3-5). • Weapon of shame turned into triumph—donkey’s jawbone vs. Roman cross (Colossians 2:15). • Cry of thirst answered by God (Judges 15:18; John 19:28-30). Both narratives end with provision—water for Samson, salvation water for all who believe (Revelation 22:17). Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' This verse emphasizes the importance of leaving justice to God. Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Jesus' teaching on loving enemies contrasts with the cycle of revenge seen in Judges 15. Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. This promise of provision echoes God's response to Samson's need for water. Teaching Points Samson's Return and Rejection Samson returns to visit his wife, only to find that she has been given to another man (Judges 15:1-2). This highlights the personal betrayal and cultural customs of the time. The Foxes and the Fields In response to this betrayal, Samson captures 300 foxes, ties their tails together with torches, and releases them into the Philistines' fields, causing widespread destruction (Judges 15:4-5). This act of revenge demonstrates Samson's resourcefulness and the escalating conflict between him and the Philistines. Philistine Retaliation The Philistines retaliate by burning Samson's wife and her father (Judges 15:6). This brutal act underscores the cycle of violence and retribution that characterizes this period in Israel's history. Samson's Vengeance Samson strikes back with great slaughter, declaring, Since you have acted like this, I will not stop until I have taken revenge on you (Judges 15:7). His actions reflect a personal vendetta rather than a divine mandate. The Jawbone of a Donkey Empowered by the Spirit of the Lord, Samson defeats a thousand Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey (Judges 15:14-16). This miraculous victory illustrates God's sovereignty and ability to use flawed individuals for His purposes. Samson's Prayer and God's Provision After his victory, Samson is exhausted and cries out to God for water. God miraculously provides water from a hollow place, demonstrating His provision and care (Judges 15:18-19). Practical Applications Seek God's Guidance Before acting on personal grievances, seek God's wisdom and guidance to ensure your actions align with His will. Break the Cycle of Revenge Recognize the destructive nature of revenge and strive to break the cycle by responding with forgiveness and grace. Trust in God's Provision In times of need, trust that God will provide for you, just as He provided water for Samson. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty Understand that God can work through imperfect people and situations to accomplish His divine purposes. People 1. Samson The central figure in Judges 15, Samson is a judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength. He is a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth, and his exploits against the Philistines are a significant part of his story. In this chapter, he seeks revenge against the Philistines for personal grievances and continues his conflict with them. 2. Samson's Wife Although not named in this chapter, she is the woman from Timnah whom Samson married. Her actions in the previous chapter (Judges 14) lead to the events in Judges 15, where her father gives her to another man, sparking Samson's anger. 3. Samson's Father-in-law The father of Samson's wife, who gives her to another man, thinking Samson no longer wanted her. This act is a catalyst for Samson's subsequent actions against the Philistines. 4. The Philistines The primary antagonists in the narrative, the Philistines are a group of people who oppress Israel during the time of the judges. They are the targets of Samson's vengeance throughout the chapter. 5. The Men of Judah These are the Israelites from the tribe of Judah who confront Samson at the cave of Etam. They are pressured by the Philistines to capture Samson and hand him over, highlighting the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines. 6. The Philistine Woman's Companion Referred to indirectly, this is the man to whom Samson's wife was given by her father. His presence is part of the reason for Samson's anger and subsequent actions. In the Berean Standard Bible, these characters are part of the unfolding drama in Judges 15, where Samson's personal vendetta against the Philistines escalates into a larger conflict. The Hebrew roots of the text emphasize the cultural and historical context of these interactions, particularly the ongoing struggle between the Israelites and the Philistines. Places 1. Timnah This is where Samson went to visit his wife during the time of wheat harvest. Timnah is a town in the territory of the tribe of Dan, which was under Philistine control at the time. The Hebrew root for Timnah (תִּמְנָה) suggests a place that is "allotted" or "assigned." 2. Lehi This is the place where Samson defeated a thousand Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey. The name "Lehi" (לֶחִי) in Hebrew means "jawbone," which is significant given the events that transpired there. It is also where Samson named the spring "En Hakkore" after God provided water for him. Events 1. Samson Visits His Wife Samson goes to visit his wife, bringing a young goat as a gift, intending to go into her room. However, her father does not allow him to enter, explaining that he thought Samson hated her and thus gave her to his companion (Judges 15:1-2). 2. Samson's Anger and Revenge In response to his wife being given away, Samson declares, "This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them" (Judges 15:3). He catches 300 foxes, ties their tails together in pairs with torches, and releases them into the Philistines' grain fields, vineyards, and olive groves, setting them ablaze (Judges 15:4-5). 3. Philistines' Retaliation The Philistines inquire about who caused the destruction, and upon learning it was Samson, they retaliate by burning his wife and her father to death (Judges 15:6). 4. Samson's Further Revenge Samson vows revenge for their actions and attacks the Philistines, slaughtering many of them. He then retreats to a cave in the rock of Etam (Judges 15:7-8). 5. Philistines' Pursuit The Philistines go up to Judah and camp near Lehi, prompting the men of Judah to confront Samson. They express their fear of the Philistines and agree to bind Samson to hand him over to them (Judges 15:9-13). 6. Samson's Victory with a Jawbone As Samson is brought to the Philistines, the Spirit of the LORD comes powerfully upon him. The ropes binding him become like charred flax, and he finds a fresh jawbone of a donkey, using it to kill a thousand Philistine men (Judges 15:14-15). 7. Samson's Prayer and God's Provision After his victory, Samson is very thirsty and cries out to the LORD, fearing he will die of thirst. God miraculously provides water from a hollow place in Lehi, reviving Samson's spirit (Judges 15:18-19). 8. Samson Judges Israel The chapter concludes by noting that Samson judged Israel for twenty years during the time of the Philistines (Judges 15:20). Lessons from Judges 15 1. The Power of Divine Strength In Judges 15, we witness Samson's incredible feats of strength, which were not of his own doing but a gift from God. "The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him" (Judges 15:14). This reminds us that when we rely on God's strength rather than our own, we can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Just as Samson was empowered to defeat his enemies, we too can face our battles with confidence, knowing that God equips us for the tasks He sets before us. 2. The Importance of Keeping Promises Samson's story begins with a broken promise, as his wife is given to another man. This betrayal sets off a chain of events that leads to conflict. It serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our commitments. As believers, our word should reflect the faithfulness of God, who "is not a man, that He should lie" (Numbers 23:19). Let your yes be yes, and your no be no, as a testament to your integrity. 3. The Consequences of Anger Samson's anger leads him to take drastic actions, such as setting the Philistines' fields on fire. While his actions were part of God's plan, they also highlight the destructive potential of unchecked anger. "In your anger do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26) is a vital lesson for us all. We must learn to manage our emotions and seek God's guidance in moments of frustration. 4. God's Sovereignty in Chaos Despite the chaos and conflict in Judges 15, God's sovereignty is evident. He uses Samson's actions to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating that He can work through even the most tumultuous situations. "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). Trust in His plan, even when life seems chaotic. 5. The Role of Faith in Action Samson's faith in God's power is evident when he takes up the jawbone of a donkey to defeat a thousand men. This act of faith shows that when we step out in trust, God can use the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary. "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). Let your faith propel you into action, knowing that God is with you. 6. The Need for Humility After his victory, Samson acknowledges his need for God by crying out for water. This moment of vulnerability teaches us the importance of humility. No matter how strong or successful we become, we must remember our dependence on God. "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you" (James 4:10). Recognize your need for Him in every situation. 7. The Value of Persistence Samson's relentless pursuit of justice against the Philistines shows the value of persistence. He does not give up, even when faced with overwhelming odds. This tenacity is a reminder to persevere in our own lives, trusting that God will provide the strength we need. "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). 8. The Impact of Leadership Samson's leadership, though flawed, had a significant impact on Israel. His actions led to a period of peace and deliverance from the Philistines. This highlights the influence that leaders can have, for better or worse. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by example, reflecting His love and truth. "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you" (1 Peter 5:2). 9. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare The conflict between Samson and the Philistines is a reminder of the spiritual battles we face. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). Equip yourself with prayer and Scripture to stand firm in faith. 10. The Assurance of God's Faithfulness Throughout Judges 15, God's faithfulness to His people is unwavering. Despite their shortcomings, He remains committed to His covenant. This assurance of God's faithfulness is a cornerstone of our faith. "The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made" (Psalm 145:13). Rest in the knowledge that God is faithful, and His promises are true. Topics 1. Samson's Vengeance on the Philistines Samson seeks revenge on the Philistines after his wife is given to another man. He captures 300 foxes, ties their tails together with torches, and releases them into the Philistines' grain fields, vineyards, and olive groves, causing widespread destruction. This act of vengeance is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "שִׁלֵּם" (shillem), meaning to repay or recompense, reflecting the cycle of retribution. 2. The Philistines' Retaliation In response to Samson's actions, the Philistines burn his wife and her father. This brutal retaliation highlights the ongoing conflict and the principle of "measure for measure" justice, which is a recurring theme in the Hebrew Scriptures. 3. Samson Defeats the Philistines Samson strikes down many Philistines in revenge for the death of his wife. He declares, "With the jawbone of a donkey, I have piled them into heaps." The Hebrew word "חֲמוֹר" (chamor) for donkey is a play on words with "חֹמֶר" (chomer), meaning heap, emphasizing the poetic justice in his victory. 4. Samson's Prayer and God's Provision After his victory, Samson is extremely thirsty and calls upon the Lord for water. God miraculously provides water from a hollow place in Lehi, reviving Samson's spirit. This event underscores the Hebrew understanding of God as "יְהוָה" (Yahweh), the provider and sustainer of life. 5. Samson Judges Israel The chapter concludes with the note that Samson judged Israel for twenty years during the time of the Philistines. The Hebrew term "שָׁפַט" (shaphat) means to judge or govern, indicating Samson's role as a leader and deliverer for Israel despite his personal flaws. Themes 1. Retribution and Justice Samson seeks retribution against the Philistines for their actions against him and his wife. This theme highlights the cycle of vengeance and justice, as seen in Judges 15:3, where Samson says, "This time I will be blameless in doing harm to the Philistines." The Hebrew root for "blameless" (נָקִי, naqiy) implies innocence or being free from guilt, indicating Samson's justification for his actions. 2. Divine Empowerment The Spirit of the Lord empowers Samson to perform mighty acts. Judges 15:14 states, "The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him," emphasizing the divine source of Samson's strength. The Hebrew word for "powerfully" (צָלַח, tsalach) suggests a forceful and successful action, underscoring the supernatural aspect of his abilities. 3. Conflict and Warfare The ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines is a central theme. Samson's actions against the Philistines, such as burning their crops and defeating them with a jawbone, illustrate the warfare between these two groups. Judges 15:15 describes how Samson "found a fresh jawbone of a donkey, reached out his hand and took it, and struck down a thousand men." 4. Betrayal and Loyalty The theme of betrayal is evident when the men of Judah hand Samson over to the Philistines. Judges 15:12 records their words, "We have come to bind you and hand you over to the Philistines." This reflects the tension between loyalty to one's people and the pressure to appease oppressors. 5. Divine Deliverance Despite the betrayal, God delivers Samson from his enemies. Judges 15:18-19 recounts how God provides water for Samson in his time of need, demonstrating divine provision and care. The Hebrew word for "split" (בָּקַע, baqa) in verse 19, where God splits the hollow place, signifies a miraculous intervention. 6. Human Weakness and Divine Strength Samson's physical exhaustion and need for water highlight human frailty, while God's provision underscores divine strength. Judges 15:18 shows Samson's vulnerability: "Because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the LORD." This theme contrasts human limitations with God's limitless power. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment in handling personal conflicts and grievances. Ask God to help you break free from cycles of revenge and to respond with forgiveness. Thank God for His provision and care in times of need. Seek God's strength to trust in His sovereignty and purpose, even in challenging situations. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Judges 15:4, how could Samson realistically capture 300 foxes and tie torches to their tails without them escaping or injuring him? 2. In Judges 15:4–5, is there any historical or archaeological evidence suggesting that the widespread burning of Philistine fields by torched foxes actually took place? 3. In Judges 15:15, how can using a donkey’s jawbone account for a victory over 1,000 armed men without breaking or becoming ineffective? 4. In Judges 15:18–19, does the sudden appearance of water from a split in the ground fit known natural phenomena or historical records? 5. How do these supernatural elements in Judges 15 align or conflict with other biblical passages or historical sources describing similar events? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Samson's reaction to his wife's betrayal reveal his character? 2. Compare and contrast the actions of the Philistines and the men of Judah. What does this tell you about their fear and their faith? 3. Samson managed to kill 1,000 men with a donkey's jawbone. What does this event suggest about the source of true power? 4. Why did Samson cry out to God after his victory over the Philistines? How does this show his dependence on God? 5. In what ways does God's provision of water for Samson demonstrate His care for His people? 6. How do you interpret the cycle of retribution present in this chapter? What does it reveal about the consequences of actions? 7. How would you apply the lessons from Samson's story to your life when faced with betrayal or injustice? 8. How does God's intervention in Samson's life encourage you in your personal journey? 9. How can we reconcile Samson's violent actions with his role as a judge of Israel? 10. How does Judges 15 challenge or confirm your understanding of God's character and His ways? 11. How would you handle a situation where you are wronged, similar to Samson's betrayal by his wife? 12. What does this chapter teach us about the consequences of anger and the desire for revenge? 13. How can we find strength in our faith during times of great trial as Samson did? 14. How would you respond if you were in the position of the men of Judah, caught between fear of the Philistines and loyalty to a fellow Israelite? 15. In what ways does Samson's journey reflect the larger story of the Israelites during this period? 16. What do Samson's actions reveal about his understanding of his divine calling? 17. How does God's provision of water from a rock reflect on His ability to provide for us in our current circumstances? 18. How does the story of Samson's supernatural strength encourage you in your own struggles? 19. In what ways can we see God's mercy in the midst of Samson's violent confrontations? 20. How does the narrative of Samson inform your understanding of God's involvement in the struggles of His people, and how can we apply this to our lives today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions