Samson leverages divinely granted strength to subdue the Philistines, then seeks temporary refuge in the rocky heights of Etam, illustrating God’s power to equip and protect His chosen instruments.
“And he struck them hip and thigh with a great slaughter; and he went down and lived in the cleft of the rock of Etam.” (v.8)
In this verse, Samson responds to aggression from the Philistines with fierce power. “And he struck them hip and thigh with a great slaughter” (v.8) describes the forceful and overwhelming victory that Samson inflicted upon his enemies. Historically, Samson is described in the book of Judges as one of the last judges of Israel (circa 1100 BC). During this tumultuous period, when Israel lacked a centralized monarchy, figures like Samson arose to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. Samson’s extraordinary strength is often portrayed as coming directly from the LORD (Judges 14:6). Here, the phrase “hip and thigh” indicates a total or complete defeat of the Philistines, and highlights Samson’s role as God’s chosen instrument of deliverance.
Next, the verse reads, “and he went down and lived in the cleft of the rock of Etam.” (v.8). Etam is likely located in the territory of Judah, though the exact location is uncertain. The Hebrew word for “cleft” can refer to a rock or a secure hideaway, indicating that Samson withdrew to a secluded place. This points to his need for refuge after such a dramatic conflict. By retreating, Samson avoids the immediate retaliation from his foes. However, this action foreshadows the continued tension between Samson and the Philistines, setting the stage for future confrontations. His story points forward to the pattern of deliverance in Scripture—God preserving a chosen individual to bring relief to His people, ultimately culminating in the perfect Deliverer, Jesus Christ (Luke 1:68-69).
Samson’s victory here showcases a divine empowerment and points ahead to the LORD’s faithfulness in rescuing His people, even when they face hostile forces. Though Samson’s methods and motivations are often questioned, his calling as a judge reflects God’s sovereign choice. This event underscores the reality that the LORD uses even flawed individuals to accomplish His redemptive purpose—a theme continued throughout the entire biblical narrative.
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Judges 15:8 meaning
“And he struck them hip and thigh with a great slaughter; and he went down and lived in the cleft of the rock of Etam.” (v.8)
In this verse, Samson responds to aggression from the Philistines with fierce power. “And he struck them hip and thigh with a great slaughter” (v.8) describes the forceful and overwhelming victory that Samson inflicted upon his enemies. Historically, Samson is described in the book of Judges as one of the last judges of Israel (circa 1100 BC). During this tumultuous period, when Israel lacked a centralized monarchy, figures like Samson arose to deliver the Israelites from their oppressors. Samson’s extraordinary strength is often portrayed as coming directly from the LORD (Judges 14:6). Here, the phrase “hip and thigh” indicates a total or complete defeat of the Philistines, and highlights Samson’s role as God’s chosen instrument of deliverance.
Next, the verse reads, “and he went down and lived in the cleft of the rock of Etam.” (v.8). Etam is likely located in the territory of Judah, though the exact location is uncertain. The Hebrew word for “cleft” can refer to a rock or a secure hideaway, indicating that Samson withdrew to a secluded place. This points to his need for refuge after such a dramatic conflict. By retreating, Samson avoids the immediate retaliation from his foes. However, this action foreshadows the continued tension between Samson and the Philistines, setting the stage for future confrontations. His story points forward to the pattern of deliverance in Scripture—God preserving a chosen individual to bring relief to His people, ultimately culminating in the perfect Deliverer, Jesus Christ (Luke 1:68-69).
Samson’s victory here showcases a divine empowerment and points ahead to the LORD’s faithfulness in rescuing His people, even when they face hostile forces. Though Samson’s methods and motivations are often questioned, his calling as a judge reflects God’s sovereign choice. This event underscores the reality that the LORD uses even flawed individuals to accomplish His redemptive purpose—a theme continued throughout the entire biblical narrative.