Judges 16:9

While the men were hidden in her room, she called out, "Samson, the Philistines are here!" But he snapped the bowstrings like a strand of yarn seared by a flame. So the source of his strength remained unknown.

Study Bible

While the men were hidden in her room
This phrase sets the scene for a clandestine and deceitful act. The Hebrew word for "hidden" (סָתַר, sathar) implies a deliberate concealment, reflecting the treacherous nature of Delilah's actions. Historically, the Philistines were a constant threat to Israel, and their presence in Delilah's room underscores the ongoing conflict between the two peoples. This act of hiding men in her room reveals the depth of Delilah's betrayal and the Philistines' desperation to subdue Samson.

she called out to him
The act of calling out is significant in the narrative, as it is a moment of false alarm intended to test Samson's strength. The Hebrew verb קָרָא (qara) can mean to call out, proclaim, or summon, indicating Delilah's role in orchestrating the deception. This moment is pivotal, as it reveals Delilah's manipulation and the beginning of Samson's vulnerability to her schemes.

'Samson, the Philistines are here!'
This exclamation is a direct attempt to incite fear and urgency in Samson. The Philistines, known for their military prowess and enmity towards Israel, represent a real and present danger. Delilah's words are a calculated move to provoke a reaction from Samson, testing whether his strength can be compromised. This phrase highlights the tension between Samson's divine empowerment and the persistent threat of his enemies.

But he snapped the bowstrings
The imagery of snapping bowstrings is powerful, symbolizing Samson's extraordinary strength. The Hebrew word for "snapped" (נָתַק, nathaq) conveys a sense of breaking or tearing apart, emphasizing the ease with which Samson overcomes the trap. Bowstrings, made from animal sinew or gut, were strong and durable, yet Samson's strength renders them as nothing. This act reaffirms his God-given power, which remains intact despite the Philistines' efforts.

like a strand of yarn breaks when it touches a flame
This simile illustrates the effortless nature of Samson's strength. Yarn, delicate and easily consumed by fire, contrasts with the expected resilience of bowstrings. The comparison to a flame suggests the consuming power of divine strength, which cannot be hindered by human means. This imagery serves to remind the reader of the supernatural aspect of Samson's abilities, which are beyond ordinary human capacity.

So the source of his strength remained unknown
The mystery of Samson's strength is central to the narrative. Despite Delilah's attempts, the Philistines are left without understanding the true source of his power. This phrase underscores the divine origin of Samson's abilities, as his strength is not merely physical but a manifestation of God's presence with him. The Hebrew word for "unknown" (לֹא נוֹדַע, lo noda) suggests a lack of revelation or understanding, pointing to the spiritual dimension of Samson's might that remains hidden from his enemies. This serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God, who alone grants and sustains Samson's strength.

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.

2. Delilah
A woman from the Valley of Sorek whom Samson loved. She was bribed by the Philistine rulers to discover the secret of Samson's strength.

3. Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel and sought to capture and subdue Samson.

4. Valley of Sorek
The location where Delilah lived and where the events of this chapter took place.

5. The Hidden Men
Philistine men who were lying in wait to capture Samson once his strength was compromised.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Samson's relationship with Delilah shows the peril of compromising one's values and commitments. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith and not be swayed by worldly temptations.

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Delilah's betrayal highlights how sin can appear attractive but ultimately leads to destruction. Christians must be vigilant and discerning in their relationships and choices.

God's Strength in Our Weakness
Despite Samson's failures, God continued to work through him. This reminds us that God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He can use us despite our shortcomings.

The Importance of Obedience
Samson's account underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. His strength was tied to his Nazirite vow, and breaking it led to his downfall. Obedience to God is crucial for spiritual strength and victory.

The Need for Accountability
Samson lacked accountability, which contributed to his downfall. Christians are encouraged to seek accountability within the body of Christ to help guard against sin and temptation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Samson's relationship with Delilah about the importance of choosing godly relationships?

2. How does Samson's account illustrate the consequences of compromising one's faith and values?

3. In what ways can we guard ourselves against the deceptive nature of sin, as seen in Delilah's actions?

4. How does the concept of God's strength in our weakness apply to your personal life and struggles?

5. What steps can you take to ensure accountability in your spiritual walk, and how can this help prevent a fall like Samson's?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 13-15
These chapters provide the background of Samson's life, his Nazirite vow, and his previous encounters with the Philistines.

Proverbs 7
This chapter warns against the dangers of succumbing to seduction and deceit, similar to Samson's experience with Delilah.

1 Corinthians 10:13
This verse speaks to God's faithfulness in providing a way out of temptation, which Samson failed to seek.