Judges 14:13
Samson, who lived during the time of the judges of Israel (around 1100 BC), finds himself issuing a challenge to his guests as part of his wedding feast. When he sets forth his challenge, he says, *“But if you are unable to tell me, then you shall give me thirty linen wraps and thirty changes of clothes.”* (v.13) This command reveals the stakes at play: those who fail to solve his riddle must pay a significant price in garments and living essentials. Such material goods were crucial in ancient Israelite culture, where clothing represented status and wealth. The mention of “linen wraps” spells out how the forfeit was meant as both a financial and social burden for those who could not unravel Samson’s puzzling words.
Continuing his statement, the text says, *“And they said to him, ‘Propound your riddle, that we may hear it.’”* (v.13) His guests in Timnah—an area located in the territory near the Philistine border in southwestern Canaan—are drawn into the challenge. The city of Timnah itself is situated on a route connecting coastal Plains of Philistia with Israelite hill country. Samson, a man set apart by God (Judges 13:5 NASB-95), uses this riddle to exhibit his cunning and to test those who represent the Philistine culture he so often clashes with. Their eagerness to hear his riddle foreshadows the conflict that arises when they cannot solve it on their own, eventually leading to outside schemes for uncovering its meaning (Judges 14:17 NASB-95).
This verse also foreshadows Samson’s pattern of engaging in riddles and unexpected victories, reflecting God’s plan even through flawed individuals. Samson’s life is later referenced as an example of faith and divine empowerment (Hebrews 11:32 NASB-95). Despite his weaknesses, God uses Samson’s exploits to confront Israel’s enemies and remind the people of the Lord’s sovereignty. The high stakes of this riddle—signified by the luxurious clothing—mirror the spiritual stakes at play in Israel’s broader struggle with idolatry and worldly oppression.
Samson’s riddle reveals both his confidence and the Philistines’ susceptibility, emphasizing the tension that marked Israel’s era of the judges.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Genesis 14:13-16 meaning. When Abram learned of Lot’s capture, he set out in pursuit with his allies. They pursued them a considerable distance, then defeated the kings and rescued Lot and the other captives as well as his possessions.
- Daniel 7:13-14 meaning. A Son of Man arrives, surrounded by clouds. God gives Him power and glory to rule the earth forever.
- Judges 3:12-14 meaning. The Israelites fall back into sin, prompting God to strengthen Eglon, the king of Moab, who allies with Ammon and Amalek to defeat Israel. The Israelites are subjected to eighteen years of oppression under Eglon’s rule.