Judges 16:20
In Judges 16:20 we read, *“And she said, ‘The Philistines are upon you, Samson!’ And he awoke from his sleep and said, ‘I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.’ But he did not know that the LORD had departed from him.”* (Judges 16:20). These words reveal a critical turning point in Samson’s life. Samson, who served as a judge of Israel during the late second millennium B.C., had been supernaturally empowered by God to defeat Israel’s enemies. His power came not from mere physical might but from a covenant relationship with the LORD, signified by his Nazirite vow (Judges 13:5 NASB-95). In this scene, Delilah—Samson’s Philistine companion—alerts him that the Philistines are ready to attack once again. He assumes he can respond as he did in past victories, but the verse solemnly notes that the presence of the LORD is no longer with him.
The reference to the Philistines in this verse situates the narrative in the ancient land of Canaan, where the Philistines occupied the coastal region, notably including prominent cities such as Gaza. Gaza lay in the southwestern region near the Mediterranean Sea, and it often served as a strategic trade and military center. The conflict between Samson and the Philistines epitomized the broader struggle between the people of Israel and the surrounding nations who threatened their peace and fidelity to God. When Samson assumes he can simply “shake [himself] free,” it underscores his overconfidence—a mind-set that presumes ongoing favor without reverence for God’s commands. The tragic revelation that *“he did not know that the LORD had departed from him”* (Judges 16:20) demonstrates how critical it was, and still is, for God’s servants to remain dependent on Him (John 15:5 NASB-95).
This verse also highlights how personal compromise incrementally eroded Samson’s distinct calling. Over time, he toyed with the boundaries of his consecration, disclosing sacred details of his vow to Delilah and ultimately allowing his hair—an external symbol of his devotion—to be cut. In the same way, believers must recognize that outward signs are powerless if the inward relationship with God has been compromised. The sobering statement in Judges 16:20 warns that without the LORD’s presence, even the mightiest champion is left vulnerable to the enemy and destined to face the consequences of neglected faith.
Samson’s pride and neglect of God’s covenant led him to lose the divine strength that once empowered him.
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:
- Deuteronomy 16:18-20 meaning. Moses deals with the practical applications of the fifth commandment. Though the commandment refers to honoring parents (Exodus 20:12), the larger principle centers around authority. This discussion on authority extends to Deuteronomy 18:22.
- Judges 1:16-21 meaning. The descendants of the Kenite join the tribe of Judah in their territory. Despite the Lord’s presence, Judah fails to drive out the inhabitants of the valley, beginning to show the start of their failures. Caleb is given Hebron and drives out the Anakim, but the tribe of Benjamin also fails in their war efforts.
- Judges 2:16-23 meaning. Despite Israel’s repeated disobedience, God raises up judges to deliver them from their oppressors. However, the people persist in idolatry and corruption, leading to God’s decision to leave the remaining nations in the land as a test of Israel’s faithfulness.