The term "Thirty Companions" refers to a group of men associated with Samson, the last of the judges of Israel, as recorded in the Book of Judges. This group is specifically mentioned in the context of Samson's wedding feast in Timnah, a Philistine city. The account is found in Judges 14:10-20.

Biblical Context

Samson, known for his extraordinary strength and Nazirite vow, sought to marry a Philistine woman from Timnah, which was contrary to the Israelite custom of marrying within their own people. Despite this, the Lord had a purpose in Samson's actions, as it was an opportunity to confront the Philistines, who were oppressing Israel at the time (Judges 14:4).

During the wedding feast, which was a customary seven-day celebration, Samson was provided with thirty companions by the Philistines. These companions were likely intended to be both guests and attendants, ensuring that the feast proceeded according to Philistine customs and perhaps to keep an eye on Samson, who was known for his unpredictable behavior.

The Riddle

Samson posed a riddle to these thirty companions, wagering thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes if they could solve it within the seven days of the feast. The riddle, found in Judges 14:14, was: "Out of the eater came something to eat, and out of the strong came something sweet." This riddle was based on a personal experience of Samson, where he had killed a lion and later found bees and honey in its carcass.

Unable to solve the riddle, the companions coerced Samson's new wife to extract the answer from him. Under pressure, she succeeded, and the companions answered the riddle on the seventh day. In response, Samson declared, "If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have solved my riddle" (Judges 14:18).

Samson's Retaliation

To fulfill his wager, Samson went to Ashkelon, another Philistine city, where he struck down thirty men, took their belongings, and gave their clothes to those who had solved the riddle. This act of violence marked the beginning of Samson's direct conflict with the Philistines, as "the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him" (Judges 14:19).

Significance

The episode of the thirty companions highlights several themes in the narrative of Samson. It underscores the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines, illustrating the cultural and religious conflicts of the time. The companions' role in the account also serves to demonstrate the cunning and strength of Samson, as well as his impulsive nature, which often led to violent outcomes.

Moreover, the incident foreshadows the greater struggles and victories that Samson would achieve against the Philistines, as God used even his personal failings to deliver Israel. The account of the thirty companions is a testament to the complex interplay of divine providence and human agency in the biblical narrative.