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Judges 16:8

*Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her seven fresh cords that had not been dried, and she bound him with them* (v.8). The passage recounts how Delilah, under the influence of the Philistine authorities, takes these new cords to bind Samson. It is part of a larger sequence where Delilah is attempting to discover the secret of Samson’s strength. Samson is an important figure in Israel’s history; he served as a judge during the period broadly estimated between 1380–1050 BC. He was called by God to deliver Israel from Philistine oppression, yet his narrative shows both his extraordinary feats of might and his vulnerability when spiritually and relationally compromised.

In the immediate context, Delilah’s actions highlight her willingness to cooperate with the enemies of Israel in exchange for a personal reward, demonstrating the depth of betrayal Samson faces (Judges 16:5 NASB-95). Some scholars place these events in the region near the Valley of Sorek, a fertile area near the border of Philistine territory. This locale was significant, as it provided a meeting point of Israelite and Philistine cultures, intensifying the tension between Samson’s calling and his interactions with the Philistines.

By using fresh cords that had not been dried, the Philistines hoped the cords would have extra strength or durability, but this attempt ultimately fails to subdue Samson. In a broader theological sense, the verse points to humanity’s inability to overcome the power of God’s anointing when He has a purpose for someone, a theme inexorably seen in the life of Jesus Christ, who triumphed despite the efforts of those who sought to bind or silence Him (Matthew 16:21–23 NASB-95). Samson’s story thus illustrates that external forces, no matter how formidable, cannot prevail against God’s will.

Samson’s temporary restraint by fresh cords underscores how easily human strategies crumble before God’s chosen instrument.

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:

  • 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.
  • Judges 4:12-16 meaning. This passage describes the climactic battle between Barak’s forces and Sisera’s army. Deborah urges Barak to act, affirming that God has already secured victory. As Barak leads his men into battle, God intervenes, routing Sisera’s forces. Sisera flees on foot while his entire army is destroyed.
  • Deuteronomy 17:8-13 meaning. Moses advises local judges to appeal to the Levitical priests or to the judge in office at the central sanctuary in order to seek guidance when some cases seem too difficult for them to handle.

Judges 16:8