Judges 16:31

Then Samson's brothers and his father's family came down, carried him back, and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of his father Manoah. And he had judged Israel twenty years.

Study Bible

Then his brothers and his father’s whole family went down
This phrase highlights the familial duty and respect shown to Samson, despite his tumultuous life. The Hebrew word for "brothers" (אֲחִים, 'achim) often signifies not only biological brothers but also close kin or fellow Israelites. This indicates a collective familial responsibility and honor, emphasizing the importance of family unity and support in times of grief. The act of going "down" suggests a descent from a higher place, possibly geographically or spiritually, to retrieve Samson's body, symbolizing humility and reverence.

carried him back
The act of carrying Samson back signifies a return to his roots and heritage. The Hebrew verb used here, נָשָׂא (nasa), means to lift, bear, or carry, often implying a burden borne out of love and duty. This reflects the respect and honor given to Samson despite his failures, illustrating the biblical principle of honoring one's family and the dead.

and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol
Zorah and Eshtaol are significant locations in Samson's life, marking the beginning and end of his journey. These towns were part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan, to which Samson belonged. The act of burial in this specific location signifies a return to his origins and a fulfillment of his life cycle. Archaeological evidence suggests these areas were inhabited during the period of the Judges, providing historical context to the narrative.

in the tomb of his father Manoah
This phrase underscores the importance of family lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite culture. The tomb of Manoah, Samson's father, represents a place of familial honor and continuity. The Hebrew word for "tomb" (קֶבֶר, kever) often denotes a place of rest and remembrance, highlighting the respect for ancestors and the hope of being remembered within one's family line.

He had judged Israel twenty years
Samson's role as a judge is significant, as the Hebrew term שָׁפַט (shaphat) implies leadership, governance, and delivering justice. Despite his personal flaws, Samson served as a judge for two decades, indicating a period of relative stability and protection for Israel from their enemies, particularly the Philistines. This highlights the biblical theme that God can use imperfect individuals to fulfill His purposes, offering hope and encouragement that divine strength can manifest through human weakness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God contingent upon his Nazirite vow. His life was marked by personal failings and a final act of redemption.

2. Samson's Brothers and Family
They are mentioned as those who retrieved Samson's body for burial, indicating a familial duty and respect despite his tumultuous life.

3. Zorah and Eshtaol
These are the locations between which Samson was buried. They are significant as they are part of the territory of the tribe of Dan, to which Samson belonged.

4. Manoah
Samson's father, whose tomb becomes Samson's final resting place. Manoah's role in Samson's life is significant as he and his wife were visited by an angel announcing Samson's birth.

5. The Philistines
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, they are the oppressors of Israel during Samson's time and the ones whom Samson fought against throughout his life.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Family
Samson's family honored him in death despite his flaws, reminding us of the importance of familial bonds and forgiveness.

Legacy and Redemption
Samson's life teaches that despite personal failures, one can still fulfill God's purpose. His final act was one of redemption, showing that it's never too late to return to God.

The Role of Judges
Samson judged Israel for twenty years, highlighting the cyclical nature of Israel's history where God raises leaders to deliver His people.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Samson's weaknesses, God used him to achieve His purposes, demonstrating that God's plans are not thwarted by human failings.

The Consequences of Sin
Samson's life is a cautionary tale about the consequences of straying from God's commands, particularly regarding his Nazirite vow.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the burial of Samson by his family reflect the cultural and religious values of ancient Israel, and what can we learn from this about honoring family today?

2. In what ways does Samson's life illustrate the concept of redemption, and how can this be applied to our own lives when we face personal failures?

3. Considering Samson's role as a judge, how does his account fit into the larger account of the Book of Judges, and what does it teach us about leadership and reliance on God?

4. How does the account of Samson's burial between Zorah and Eshtaol connect to the broader theme of God's promises to the tribes of Israel, and what significance does this hold for us today?

5. Reflect on the role of God's sovereignty in Samson's life. How can understanding God's control over our lives provide comfort and guidance in times of personal struggle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 13-16
These chapters provide the full account of Samson's life, from his miraculous birth to his death, offering context to his burial.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Samson is listed among the heroes of faith, highlighting his role in God's plan despite his personal failings.

Genesis 50:24-26
Joseph's burial by his family in the Promised Land parallels Samson's burial, emphasizing the importance of family and heritage in Israelite culture.