Introduction:
Samson, one of the most renowned judges of Israel, is a central figure in the Book of Judges. His life is marked by extraordinary feats of strength, divine calling, and ultimately, a tragic yet redemptive end. The account of Samson's death is found in Judges 16, where his final act serves as both a personal and national deliverance.

Context and Background:
Samson was born to Manoah and his wife, who were visited by the Angel of the LORD, announcing that Samson would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines (Judges 13:5). As a Nazirite from birth, Samson was set apart for God's service, and his uncut hair was a symbol of his vow and the source of his supernatural strength.

Events Leading to His Death:
Samson's life was characterized by a series of conflicts with the Philistines, Israel's oppressors at the time. Despite his divine calling, Samson often acted impulsively and was entangled in personal vendettas and relationships with Philistine women, most notably Delilah. Delilah, bribed by the Philistine rulers, coaxed Samson into revealing the secret of his strength. Once his hair was cut, the LORD departed from him, and he was captured by the Philistines, who gouged out his eyes and imprisoned him (Judges 16:19-21).

Samson's Final Act:
While in prison, Samson's hair began to grow back, symbolizing the potential for the return of his strength. During a Philistine celebration in the temple of Dagon, Samson was brought out to entertain the crowd. Standing between the two central pillars of the temple, Samson prayed to the LORD, saying, "O Lord GOD, please remember me. Strengthen me, O God, just once more, so that with one act of vengeance I may pay back the Philistines for my two eyes" (Judges 16:28).

The Collapse of the Temple:
In a final act of faith and strength, Samson pushed against the pillars with all his might, causing the temple to collapse, killing himself and about three thousand Philistines (Judges 16:30). This act not only avenged his personal suffering but also struck a significant blow to the Philistine leadership, fulfilling his role as a deliverer of Israel.

Theological Significance:
Samson's death is a poignant reminder of God's sovereignty and the complexity of human agency. Despite Samson's flaws and failures, God used him to achieve divine purposes. His account illustrates themes of repentance, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of God's will over human weakness. Samson's life and death serve as a testament to the power of faith and the possibility of redemption, even in the final moments of life.

Legacy:
Samson is remembered as a hero of faith, as noted in Hebrews 11:32, where he is listed among those who, through faith, "conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised." His account continues to inspire believers to trust in God's strength and to seek His purposes, even amidst personal shortcomings and trials.