Judges 14:5

Then Samson went down to Timnah with his father and mother and came to the vineyards of Timnah. Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him,

Study Bible

Then Samson went down to Timnah
Samson's journey to Timnah marks a significant moment in his life, as it is part of his pursuit of a Philistine woman, which was against the traditional expectations for an Israelite. Timnah was a town located in the territory of the tribe of Dan, near the border of Philistine lands. This journey symbolizes Samson's initial steps towards engaging with the Philistines, who were oppressors of Israel at the time. The act of "going down" can also be seen as a metaphor for Samson's spiritual descent, as he begins to stray from his Nazirite vow and divine calling.

with his father and mother
Samson's parents accompany him, highlighting the familial involvement and concern in his decisions. His parents, who were previously visited by the Angel of the Lord, were aware of Samson's divine purpose. Their presence underscores the tension between parental guidance and Samson's personal desires. This also reflects the cultural norm of arranged marriages and parental involvement in marital decisions during that period.

and came to the vineyards of Timnah
The mention of vineyards is significant, as Samson, being a Nazirite, was to abstain from wine and anything related to the vine (Numbers 6:3-4). His presence in a vineyard suggests a proximity to temptation and a potential compromise of his Nazirite vow. This setting foreshadows Samson's struggles with self-control and his tendency to place himself in situations that test his commitments.

Suddenly a young lion came roaring at him
The sudden appearance of the lion represents an unexpected challenge and a test of Samson's strength and divine empowerment. In biblical symbolism, lions often represent danger, power, and sometimes the adversary (1 Peter 5:8). This encounter prefigures Samson's role as a deliverer of Israel, empowered by God to overcome formidable foes. The lion can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is referred to as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" (Revelation 5:5), symbolizing strength and victory over evil.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. His life is marked by personal struggles and divine purpose.

2. Samson's Father and Mother
Manoah and his wife, who were visited by an angel announcing Samson's birth and his Nazirite vow.

3. Timnah
A Philistine town where Samson sought a wife, indicating his interactions with the Philistines, who were oppressors of Israel at the time.

4. Vineyards of Timnah
The setting of this event, significant because Samson, as a Nazirite, was to abstain from wine and grapes, yet he finds himself in a vineyard.

5. Young Lion
Represents a sudden and fierce challenge that Samson encounters, testing his strength and reliance on God.

Teaching Points

Divine Strength in Times of Trial
Samson's encounter with the lion reminds us that God equips us with the strength needed to face unexpected challenges. We must rely on His power rather than our own.

The Importance of Obedience
Samson's presence in the vineyard, despite his Nazirite vow, serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of obedience to God's commands and the dangers of compromising our commitments.

Spiritual Vigilance
Just as Samson was suddenly confronted by a lion, believers must remain spiritually vigilant, aware of the enemy's attempts to disrupt our walk with God.

God's Purpose Amidst Personal Failings
Despite Samson's flaws, God used him to fulfill His purposes. This encourages us that God can work through us, even when we fall short.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Samson's encounter with the lion teach us about facing unexpected challenges in our own lives?

2. How does Samson's presence in the vineyard relate to the concept of temptation and compromise in our spiritual walk?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are spiritually vigilant, as warned in 1 Peter 5:8, in our daily lives?

4. How can we reconcile the idea of God using flawed individuals like Samson with our understanding of holiness and obedience?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's strength in a difficult situation. How did that experience shape your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Nazirite Vow
Numbers 6 outlines the Nazirite vow, which includes abstaining from wine and not cutting one's hair. Samson's presence in a vineyard highlights the tension between his calling and his actions.

1 Peter 5:8
This verse warns believers to be vigilant because the devil prowls like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Samson's encounter with the lion can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual vigilance.

Proverbs 28:1
The righteous are bold as a lion. Samson's boldness in facing the lion can be seen as a reflection of his God-given strength and courage.