"Let me tell you a riddle," Samson said to them. "If you can solve it for me within the seven days of the feast, I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes. Let me tell you a riddleThe phrase "Let me tell you a riddle" introduces a common form of entertainment in ancient times, where riddles were used not only for amusement but also as a test of wisdom and intelligence. The Hebrew word for "riddle" is "חִידָה" (chidah), which can also mean an enigmatic saying or a perplexing question. In the context of Samson's life, this riddle is more than a mere game; it is a reflection of his complex character and the divine purpose that often worked through his actions, even when they seemed trivial or self-serving. Samson said to them If you can give me the answer within the seven days of the feast I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes Persons / Places / Events 1. SamsonA judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. He is a Nazirite, set apart for God's service from birth. 2. Philistines The people who were ruling over Israel at the time. Samson's interactions with them are central to his account, often marked by conflict and divine intervention. 3. Timnah A Philistine town where Samson went to find a wife, leading to the events of this chapter. 4. The Feast A seven-day wedding feast, a customary celebration during which Samson posed his riddle to the Philistines. 5. The Riddle A challenge posed by Samson to the Philistines, which becomes a pivotal moment in the account, leading to further conflict. Teaching Points The Power of WordsSamson's riddle demonstrates the impact words can have. As believers, we should be mindful of how we use our words, ensuring they align with God's truth and purpose. God's Sovereignty in Conflict Even in the midst of conflict and seemingly trivial challenges, God's purposes are at work. We can trust that He is sovereign over all situations. Wisdom and Discernment The Philistines' struggle to solve the riddle highlights the need for wisdom and discernment. As Christians, we should seek God's wisdom in all things. Integrity and Honesty The unfolding events challenge us to consider the importance of integrity and honesty in our dealings with others. Cultural Engagement Samson's interaction with the Philistines shows the complexities of engaging with the surrounding culture. We are called to be in the world but not of it, maintaining our distinctiveness as followers of Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Samson's use of a riddle reflect his character and the cultural context of his time?2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in the events surrounding Samson's riddle, and how does this encourage us in our own lives? 3. How can we apply the principle of seeking wisdom and discernment in our daily decisions, as seen in the Philistines' struggle with the riddle? 4. What lessons can we learn from Samson's interactions with the Philistines about maintaining integrity and honesty in our relationships? 5. How can we engage with the culture around us while remaining faithful to our Christian values, as illustrated by Samson's account? Connections to Other Scriptures Judges 13-16The broader account of Samson's life, detailing his birth, exploits, and eventual downfall, providing context for his actions in Judges 14. Proverbs 1:5-6 Discusses the value of understanding riddles and wise sayings, which can be related to the challenge Samson presents. 1 Corinthians 1:27 Highlights how God uses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, paralleling how Samson's riddle confounds the Philistines.
People Samson, TimnahPlaces Ashkelon, TimnahTopics Able, Banquet, Certainly, Change, Changes, Clothes, Clothing, Declare, Feast, Festal, Forth, Garments, Indeed, Linen, Propose, Propound, Question, Raiment, Riddle, Robes, Samson, Sets, Seven, Sheets, Shirts, Thirty, Within, WrapsDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 14:12Library Introductory Remarks. We present here, by way of an Appendix to our argument for the Divinity of Christ, a collection of the more remarkable testimonies of unbelievers to the character of Christ, arranged in chronological order, and accompanied with explanatory notes. Dr. Nathaniel Lardner (born in 1684, died in 1768), although a Socinian, or Unitarian, in his views on Christ's person, did excellent service to the cause of revealed religion against the Deism of his day by his truly learned and valuable work on the "Credibility … Philip Schaff—The Person of Christ Whether the Temptation of God Consists in Certain Deeds, Wherein the Expected Result is Ascribed to the Power of God Alone? The Exile --Continued. The Earliest Chapters in Divine Revelation Jesus Works his First Miracle at Cana in Galilee. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs Josiah, a Pattern for the Ignorant. Judges Links Judges 14:12 NIVJudges 14:12 NLT Judges 14:12 ESV Judges 14:12 NASB Judges 14:12 KJV Judges 14:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |