The phrase "eleven hundred shekels of silver" appears in the context of two significant narratives in the Old Testament, each highlighting themes of betrayal, idolatry, and divine providence. This entry explores these occurrences and their theological implications.

Judges 16:5 · The Betrayal of Samson

In the Book of Judges, the Philistine rulers offer Delilah eleven hundred shekels of silver each to betray Samson, the judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength. The Philistines, seeking to subdue Samson, entice Delilah to discover the secret of his strength. Judges 16:5 states: "The lords of the Philistines went to her and said, 'Entice him, and find out the source of his great strength and how we can overpower him, so we may tie him up and subdue him. Then each of us will give you eleven hundred shekels of silver.'"

This substantial sum underscores the Philistines' desperation to defeat Samson, who had been a formidable adversary. Delilah's acceptance of the bribe reflects a moral failing, prioritizing wealth over loyalty and integrity. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the consequences of forsaking God's chosen leaders.

Judges 17:2-4 · Micah's Idolatry

The second mention of eleven hundred shekels of silver occurs in Judges 17, where a man named Micah confesses to his mother that he had taken her silver. Upon his confession, his mother blesses him and dedicates the silver to the LORD to make a carved image and a cast idol. Judges 17:2-4 recounts: "He said to his mother, 'The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you, and about which I heard you utter a curse—I have the silver with me; I took it.' Then his mother said, 'The LORD bless you, my son!' And when he had returned the eleven hundred shekels of silver to his mother, she said, 'I now dedicate the silver to the LORD for my son to make a carved image and a cast idol. I will give it back to you.'"

This incident illustrates the spiritual decline in Israel during the time of the judges, where idolatry and syncretism had infiltrated the worship of Yahweh. Despite the initial intention to dedicate the silver to the LORD, the creation of an idol directly contravenes the commandments given to Israel. The narrative highlights the confusion and moral ambiguity prevalent in a period marked by the absence of strong, centralized leadership and the repeated refrain, "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 17:6).

Theological Implications

The mention of eleven hundred shekels of silver in these accounts serves as a narrative device to explore deeper theological themes. In the account of Samson, it underscores the destructive power of greed and betrayal, while in the account of Micah, it highlights the perils of idolatry and the erosion of true worship. Both accounts reflect the broader theme of Israel's cyclical sin and redemption, emphasizing the need for divine intervention and the ultimate sovereignty of God in guiding His people back to righteousness.