Judges 14:20
*But Samson’s wife was given to his companion who had been his friend.* (v.20) This short verse from Judges 14 provides a dramatic conclusion to the account of Samson’s initial marriage arrangement. Samson, one of Israel’s judges in the historical period approximately between 1118 and 1078 BC, had been chosen by the Lord to deliver Israel from the Philistines (Judges 13:5 NASB-95). In the preceding events, he killed a lion with his bare hands and later gave a riddle at his wedding feast (Judges 14:12–18 NASB-95). After the riddle was solved through the betrayal of his Philistine wife, Samson felt anger and left the wedding, leading to the startling twist we see in this verse. By the time Samson returned, his wife had been handed over to someone else, tragically highlighting the betrayal inflicted on him.
When it states that *Samson’s wife was given to his companion who had been his friend*, (v.20) we see the deep personal impact of Samson’s conflict with the Philistines. This “companion” likely refers to a Philistine or a local individual who functioned as a friend within the wedding party. The geographical region for Samson’s activities was primarily near Timnah, in the lower hills of Judah near the western lowlands, which placed him among territories under Philistine influence. The abrupt switch of Samson’s wife to his friend illustrates the broken relationships and animosity that plagued the era of the judges.
This verse also foreshadows the escalating tension that will later explode between Samson and the Philistines. Jesus echoed the importance of fidelity and covenant loyalty in His teachings (Matthew 19:9 NASB-95), suggesting how betrayal within marriage can wound deeply, leading to further emotional pain and conflict. Samson’s situation points to the volatility of his life and the wider hostility against Israel during the time when judges led various tribes, before the establishment of Israel’s monarchy.
Samson’s unchecked anger, combined with his wife’s betrayal, resulted in a dramatic turn that continued the cycle of conflict and vengeance.
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 14:17-20 meaning. After all the battles and wars, the king priest Melchizedek blessed Abram, and Abram gave to Melchizedek a tenth of the spoils of the wars.
- Exodus 20:3 meaning. The 1st commandment prohibits the worship of all other gods.
- 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.