Background:
Samson, a judge of Israel, is one of the most enigmatic and powerful figures in the Old Testament. His life is chronicled in the Book of Judges, chapters 13 to 16. Known for his supernatural strength, which was derived from his Nazirite vow to God, Samson's life was marked by feats of strength, personal vendettas, and ultimately, a tragic downfall. His return and rejection are pivotal moments that highlight the complexities of his character and his relationship with the Israelites and God.

Narrative Context:
After a series of personal and national conflicts with the Philistines, Samson's life takes a dramatic turn. His marriage to a Philistine woman, his riddles, and subsequent acts of vengeance set the stage for ongoing strife between him and the Philistines. Despite his personal failings, Samson is used by God to begin the deliverance of Israel from Philistine oppression.

Return to Judah:
In Judges 15, Samson returns to Judah after a period of conflict with the Philistines. He had previously burned the Philistine fields in retaliation for his wife's betrayal, which led to her and her father's death. The Philistines, in turn, sought to capture Samson, prompting his return to his own people.

Rejection by His Own People:
Upon his return, the men of Judah confront Samson. They are fearful of Philistine retribution and express their willingness to hand him over to their oppressors to avoid further conflict. Judges 15:11-12 records their words: "Then three thousand men of Judah went down to the cave in the rock of Etam and said to Samson, 'Do you not realize that the Philistines rule over us? What have you done to us?' 'I have done to them what they did to me,' he replied. But they said to him, 'We have come to bind you and hand you over to the Philistines.'"

This encounter reveals the tension between Samson and his fellow Israelites. Despite his role as a judge and deliverer, Samson is rejected by his own people, who prioritize their immediate safety over the long-term deliverance that Samson represents. This rejection underscores the spiritual and moral decline of Israel during this period, as they fail to recognize God's deliverance through Samson.

Samson's Response:
Samson agrees to be bound by the men of Judah, but he makes them swear not to kill him themselves. This act of submission is strategic, as Samson knows his strength will allow him to overcome the Philistines once more. Judges 15:14-15 describes the subsequent events: "As he approached Lehi, the Philistines came toward him shouting. The Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him, and the ropes on his arms became like charred flax, and the bindings dropped from his hands. Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men."

Theological Implications:
Samson's return and rejection highlight several key theological themes. First, they illustrate the sovereignty of God, who uses flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes. Despite Samson's personal failings, God empowers him to deliver Israel from their enemies. Second, the narrative reflects the spiritual blindness of the Israelites, who fail to recognize God's hand at work through Samson. Their rejection of Samson is symbolic of their broader rejection of God's covenant and deliverance.

Conclusion:
Samson's account is a complex tapestry of strength, weakness, faith, and failure. His return and rejection serve as a microcosm of Israel's spiritual state during the time of the judges, characterized by a cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. Through Samson, God demonstrates His power and faithfulness, even amidst human frailty and rejection.