Topical Encyclopedia Samson, one of the most renowned figures in the Book of Judges, is a central character whose life and exploits are recorded in Judges 13-16. His name, "Samson," is derived from the Hebrew word "Shimshon," which is believed to be related to "shemesh," meaning "sun." This etymology suggests a connection to brightness or radiance, possibly reflecting his role as a deliverer of Israel during a time of darkness under Philistine oppression.Biblical Account and Role Samson is introduced in Judges 13 as the son of Manoah, from the tribe of Dan. His birth is announced by the Angel of the LORD to his barren mother, signifying his future importance. The Angel instructs her that Samson is to be a Nazirite from birth, a vow that includes abstaining from wine, avoiding contact with the dead, and not cutting his hair. This Nazirite vow is central to Samson's identity and the source of his extraordinary strength. Samson's Exploits Samson's life is marked by a series of remarkable feats, often against the Philistines, who were oppressing Israel at the time. His strength is legendary, and he is known for several key episodes: 1. The Lion and the Riddle: In Judges 14, Samson kills a lion with his bare hands. Later, he poses a riddle to the Philistines based on this encounter, which leads to a series of events that further escalate tensions between him and the Philistines. 2. The Jawbone of a Donkey: In Judges 15, Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey to slay a thousand Philistines, demonstrating his unparalleled physical prowess. 3. The Gates of Gaza: In another display of strength, Samson carries the gates of the city of Gaza to the top of a hill (Judges 16:3), symbolizing his defiance of Philistine power. 4. Delilah and His Downfall: Samson's relationship with Delilah, a Philistine woman, leads to his eventual downfall. Delilah, bribed by the Philistine leaders, coaxes Samson into revealing the secret of his strength—his uncut hair. Once his hair is cut, Samson is captured, blinded, and imprisoned (Judges 16:4-21). 5. Samson's Final Act: In a final act of faith and strength, Samson prays to God to restore his strength. He brings down the temple of Dagon, killing himself and many Philistines, thus delivering a significant blow to Israel's enemies (Judges 16:28-30). Theological Significance Samson's life is a complex tapestry of divine empowerment and human weakness. His account illustrates the consequences of personal failings and the sovereignty of God in using flawed individuals to achieve His purposes. Despite his shortcomings, Samson is listed among the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11:32, highlighting his role as a judge who, through faith, delivered Israel. Legacy Samson's narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for redemption and the importance of faithfulness to God's calling. His life, marked by both triumph and tragedy, continues to be a subject of reflection and study within the Christian tradition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 13:24,25And the woman bore a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 16:31 Library The Historical Books. The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... The Poets Letter cvii. To Laeta. The English-Speaking Peoples: Action and Reaction Homiletical. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Against Jovinianus. The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources What should we learn from the account of Samson and Delilah? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Judges | GotQuestions.org Who was Gideon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Extraordinary Judges: During Four Hundred and Fifty Years Extraordinary Judges: Israel not Permanently or Spiritually Benefitted By Extraordinary Judges: Names of Abdon Extraordinary Judges: Names of Abimelech Extraordinary Judges: Names of Deborah Extraordinary Judges: Names of Ehud Extraordinary Judges: Names of Eli Extraordinary Judges: Names of Elon Extraordinary Judges: Names of Gideon Extraordinary Judges: Names of Ibzan Extraordinary Judges: Names of Jair Extraordinary Judges: Names of Jephthah Extraordinary Judges: Names of Othniel Extraordinary Judges: Names of Samson Extraordinary Judges: Names of Samuel Extraordinary Judges: Names of Shamgar Extraordinary Judges: Names of Tola Extraordinary Judges: Not Without Intermission Extraordinary Judges: Raised up to Deliver Israel Extraordinary Judges: Remarkable for Their Faith Extraordinary Judges: The office of, not Always for Life, or Hereditary Extraordinary Judges: Upheld and Strengthened by God Related Terms |
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