Judges 14:15

So on the fourth day they said to Samson's wife, "Entice your husband to explain the riddle to us, or we will burn you and your father's household to death. Did you invite us here to rob us?"

Study Bible

So on the fourth day
The timing here is significant. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the number four often symbolizes completeness or universality. The fourth day marks a turning point in the narrative, indicating the urgency and desperation of the Philistines. This timing also reflects the cultural practice of wedding feasts, which typically lasted seven days.

they said to Samson’s wife
Samson's wife was a Philistine, highlighting the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines. Her role is pivotal, as she becomes a tool for the Philistines to manipulate Samson. This reflects the broader theme of conflict and compromise between God's people and surrounding nations.

“Entice your husband to explain the riddle to us
The word "entice" suggests seduction or persuasion, indicating the Philistines' reliance on deceit rather than direct confrontation. This mirrors the serpent's temptation of Eve in Genesis, where persuasion leads to a fall. The riddle itself is a test of wisdom and strength, common in ancient literature.

or we will burn you and your father’s household to death
This threat reveals the brutal and violent nature of the Philistines. It underscores the stakes involved and the lengths to which they will go to maintain honor and avoid shame. The threat of fire is a recurring motif in Scripture, symbolizing judgment and destruction, as seen in Sodom and Gomorrah.

Did you invite us here to rob us?”
The accusation of being robbed points to the cultural importance of honor and reciprocity in ancient societies. The Philistines feel deceived and humiliated by the riddle, which they cannot solve. This reflects the broader biblical theme of human pride and the consequences of trying to outwit God's chosen instruments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God. He was a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God, and his life is a series of conflicts with the Philistines.

2. Philistine Woman
Samson's wife, whom he married against his parents' wishes. She was from Timnah, a Philistine city, and her relationship with Samson is central to the events of Judges 14.

3. Philistines
The ruling people over Israel at the time, often in conflict with the Israelites. They are the antagonists in the account of Samson.

4. Timnah
A Philistine city where Samson's wife lived. It is the setting for the events of Judges 14, including the wedding feast and the riddle.

5. Riddle
Samson posed a riddle to the Philistines during his wedding feast, which they could not solve without the help of his wife. The riddle was a source of conflict and a catalyst for the events that followed.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Unequally Yoked Relationships
Samson's marriage to a Philistine woman serves as a cautionary tale about forming close relationships with those who do not share the same faith and values.

The Consequences of Compromise
Samson's willingness to compromise his Nazirite vows and his association with the Philistines led to personal and national consequences.

The Power of Influence
The account illustrates how those closest to us can influence our decisions, for better or worse, and the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly influences.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Human Failure
Despite Samson's personal failings, God used the situation to fulfill His purposes against the Philistines, demonstrating His sovereignty.

The Importance of Wisdom and Discernment
Samson's lack of discernment in his relationships and decisions serves as a reminder to seek God's wisdom in all areas of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's choice of a Philistine wife reflect on his commitment to his Nazirite vow and his relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we see the influence of Samson's wife and the Philistines affecting his decisions? How can we apply this understanding to our own relationships?

3. How does the account of Samson and his wife in Judges 14:15 connect with the warnings found in Proverbs 7 and 1 Corinthians 15:33?

4. What does this passage teach us about the consequences of compromising our values and beliefs? How can we guard against such compromises in our own lives?

5. How can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of Samson's personal failures, and how does this encourage us in our own struggles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 16
The account of Samson and Delilah, which parallels the manipulation and betrayal seen in Judges 14:15, highlighting the recurring theme of Samson's vulnerability to Philistine women.

Proverbs 7
Offers wisdom on the dangers of being led astray by seductive and manipulative influences, similar to the situation Samson faced with his wife.

1 Corinthians 15:33
Warns about the influence of bad company, which is relevant to Samson's interactions with the Philistines and his choice of a Philistine wife.