Samson, a judge of Israel, is a prominent figure in the Book of Judges, known for his extraordinary strength and complex character. His life is marked by a series of personal vendettas and acts of retaliation, often driven by anger. These episodes highlight both his human frailties and his role as an instrument of divine judgment against the Philistines.

The Riddle and Its Consequences

The narrative of Samson's anger begins with his marriage to a Philistine woman from Timnah. During the wedding feast, Samson poses a riddle to thirty Philistine companions, wagering thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes (Judges 14:12-13). When his wife is coerced into revealing the answer, Samson's anger is kindled. In retaliation, he goes to Ashkelon, strikes down thirty men, and gives their garments to those who had solved the riddle (Judges 14:19). This act of vengeance marks the beginning of a cycle of violence between Samson and the Philistines.

The Burning of the Philistine Fields

Samson's anger flares again when he discovers that his wife has been given to another man. In response, he captures three hundred foxes, ties their tails together with torches, and releases them into the Philistine grain fields, vineyards, and olive groves, causing widespread destruction (Judges 15:4-5). This act of retaliation provokes the Philistines to burn his wife and her father, further fueling Samson's wrath.

The Jawbone of a Donkey

In another episode of retaliation, the Philistines come to Judah to capture Samson. The men of Judah, fearing Philistine retribution, bind Samson and deliver him to their enemies. However, the Spirit of the LORD empowers him, and he breaks free from his bonds. Using the jawbone of a donkey, Samson strikes down a thousand Philistine men (Judges 15:14-15). This victory is both a personal act of vengeance and a deliverance for Israel, demonstrating God's sovereignty even through Samson's anger.

The Gates of Gaza

Samson's anger and strength are further displayed in Gaza, where he is trapped by the Philistines. In the middle of the night, he tears out the city gates, along with their posts and bar, and carries them to the top of a hill facing Hebron (Judges 16:3). This act of defiance underscores his role as a divinely appointed judge, despite his personal flaws.

The Final Act of Vengeance

Samson's life culminates in a final act of retaliation against the Philistines. Betrayed by Delilah and blinded, he is brought to a Philistine temple to entertain the crowd. In a final prayer, Samson asks God for strength to avenge his eyes. God grants his request, and Samson pulls down the temple pillars, killing himself and thousands of Philistines (Judges 16:28-30). This ultimate act of vengeance fulfills his role as a judge, delivering Israel from Philistine oppression.

Throughout these episodes, Samson's anger and acts of retaliation serve as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the ways in which God can use even flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes.