Judges 16:9
Samson has once again defied the attempts to weaken him. The text says *“Now she had men lying in wait in an inner room. And she said to him, ‘The Philistines are upon you, Samson!’ But he snapped the bowstrings like a string of tow when it touches fire. So his strength was not discovered.”* (Judges 16:9). This event highlights the cunning plan of Delilah, who allied herself with the Philistine rulers. They remained hidden in a separate chamber, ready to pounce, but their hopes were completely dashed when Samson broke the cords effortlessly. Though the verse itself is concise, it depicts the tension between Samson and his adversaries, illustrating how they continually miscalculated the depth of his God-given might.
The Philistines were a people who inhabited the southwestern region of Canaan along the Mediterranean coast circa the 12th to 10th centuries BC, frequently clashing with the Israelites. Delilah’s involvement, hinted at here, continues the saga of Samson, an Israelite judge dating around the late 12th to early 11th century BC. He was born in Zorah (Judges 13:2), a town in ancient Israel, and his life was marked by victories over the Philistines that were often fueled by his Nazirite vow and the power granted to him by God. This verse underscores the Israelite-Philistine conflict, a recurring tension throughout Judges, ultimately pointing to God’s continuing deliverance of Israel from its enemies.
In the greater biblical narrative, we see reflections of God’s protection, particularly when individuals are appointed for a specific task. Samson’s mandate to fight the Philistines bears resemblance to other chosen figures in Scripture who experienced miraculous sustaining power (Hebrews 11:32 NASB-95). In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrates divine authority through persistent triumph over spiritual adversaries (Luke 4:1–13 NASB-95). Samson’s display of strength foreshadows a greater deliverance in Christ, albeit in a far more perfect and sinless form.
This verse shows Samson’s remarkable resilience despite deception and the enemy’s ambush.
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.
- Deuteronomy 1:16-18 meaning. Moses reminds the people that he called upon the judges to conduct their legal procedures with equity, knowing that every judgment belongs to the LORD.
- Matthew 16:13-20 meaning. Jesus begins a significant conversation with His disciples In Caesarea Philippi. He asks His disciples about the Son of Man and who He is. Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God. Jesus commends His disciple for God’s revealing this to him, and tells him that such bold faith will lead the church to overcome culture and Hades itself. Jesus also tells Peter that He will give him authority to act on behalf of kingdom of heaven.