One day Samson went down to Timnah
Samson, a judge of Israel, is introduced in the context of his journey to Timnah, a town located in the territory of the tribe of Dan, near the border of Philistine lands. This geographical setting is significant as it highlights the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines, who were often in conflict. The phrase "went down" not only indicates a physical descent but can also symbolize a spiritual decline, as Samson's actions in Timnah lead to a series of events that reflect his personal weaknesses and struggles with temptation. Timnah's location is strategic, serving as a crossroads between the two cultures, which often led to interactions that were both politically and personally complex.

where he saw a young Philistine woman
The mention of a "young Philistine woman" introduces a key element in Samson's narrative: his attraction to foreign women, which is a recurring theme in his life. The Philistines were one of Israel's primary adversaries, and intermarriage with them was discouraged due to the potential for idolatry and cultural assimilation. This encounter foreshadows the challenges Samson will face due to his relationships with Philistine women, ultimately leading to his downfall. Theologically, this reflects the broader biblical theme of Israel's struggle to remain distinct and faithful amidst surrounding pagan influences. Samson's desire for the Philistine woman can be seen as a type of Israel's own infatuation with foreign gods and practices, which often led them away from their covenant with Yahweh.

So he returned and told his father and mother
In the cultural context of ancient Israel, family played a central role in decision-making, especially regarding marriage. Samson's return to his parents indicates the importance of familial approval and involvement in marital arrangements. This reflects the patriarchal structure of society, where parents, particularly the father, had significant authority over their children's choices. The act of returning to his parents also highlights the close-knit family dynamics typical of the time.

“I have seen a daughter of the Philistines in Timnah.”
Timnah was a town located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan, near the border of Philistine territory. The Philistines were a significant presence in the region and often in conflict with the Israelites. Samson's interest in a Philistine woman is notable, as it foreshadows the tension between his divine calling as an Israelite judge and his personal desires. The Philistines were known for their advanced culture and military prowess, which often put them at odds with the Israelites. This phrase also sets the stage for the recurring theme of Israel's struggle with foreign influences and the temptation to assimilate.

Now get her for me as a wife.”
Samson's demand for a Philistine wife is contrary to the Mosaic Law, which discouraged intermarriage with foreign nations to prevent idolatry and cultural assimilation (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). His insistence reflects a pattern of impulsive behavior and disregard for divine commandments, which characterizes much of his life. This request also prefigures the broader narrative of Israel's repeated failure to remain separate from surrounding nations, leading to spiritual and moral decline. Samson's actions can be seen as a type of Christ in the sense that both figures engage with those outside the covenant community, though with vastly different purposes and outcomes.

But his father and mother replied,
In the context of ancient Israel, parental involvement in marriage decisions was customary. Parents often arranged marriages to ensure alliances and maintain cultural and religious integrity. This reflects the patriarchal structure of society where family heads had significant influence over such decisions.

“Can’t you find a young woman among your relatives or among any of our people?
This question highlights the importance of marrying within one's own community, a practice rooted in the desire to preserve religious and cultural identity. The Israelites were instructed to avoid intermarriage with surrounding nations to prevent idolatry and cultural assimilation (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This reflects a broader biblical theme of separation from pagan practices.

Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?”
The term "uncircumcised" is significant, as circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants (Genesis 17:10-14). The Philistines, as uncircumcised, were outside this covenant, representing a spiritual and cultural threat. The Philistines were a dominant force in the region, often in conflict with Israel, and their practices were contrary to Israelite law and worship.

But Samson told his father,
Samson's insistence on his choice reflects a personal desire that overrides traditional and parental guidance. This moment foreshadows his later actions, where personal desires often lead to conflict and trouble, illustrating a recurring theme of individual will versus divine command.

“Get her for me,
This command underscores Samson's determination and impulsive nature. It also reflects the patriarchal society where men had the authority to make such demands. Samson's insistence on marrying a Philistine woman sets the stage for future conflicts and highlights his role as a judge who often acted independently of Israelite norms.

for she is pleasing to my eyes.”
This phrase indicates a focus on physical attraction rather than spiritual or cultural compatibility. It echoes the biblical theme of sight leading to temptation and sin, as seen in Genesis 3:6 with Eve and the forbidden fruit. Samson's choice based on sight rather than faithfulness to God's commands foreshadows his eventual downfall, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing personal desires over divine will.

Now his father and mother did not know this was from the LORD
This phrase highlights the divine orchestration behind Samson's actions, unbeknownst to his parents. It underscores the theme of God's sovereignty, where He uses even the flawed decisions of individuals to fulfill His purposes. This is reminiscent of other biblical narratives where God's plans are hidden from human understanding, such as Joseph's story in Genesis 50:20, where what was meant for evil, God used for good. It also reflects the mystery of God's will, as seen in Isaiah 55:8-9, where God's thoughts and ways are higher than human comprehension.

who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines
This indicates God's intention to use Samson as an instrument of judgment against the Philistines, who were oppressing Israel. The Philistines were a significant threat during this period, known for their advanced military technology, including iron weapons. This context is crucial for understanding the cyclical pattern of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance in the Book of Judges. God's seeking an occasion suggests His proactive role in delivering Israel, similar to how He raised up other judges like Ehud and Deborah to deliver His people.

for at that time the Philistines were ruling over Israel
This provides the historical context of the narrative, where the Philistines had established dominance over Israel. The Philistine oppression is a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, highlighting Israel's failure to fully obey God's command to drive out the inhabitants of the land (Judges 1:27-36). This period of Philistine rule is part of the larger cycle of disobedience and deliverance that characterizes the era of the judges. It sets the stage for Samson's role as a judge and deliverer, albeit a flawed one, pointing to the need for a perfect deliverer, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

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.

and the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him
This phrase indicates a divine empowerment, a recurring theme in the Book of Judges where God raises leaders to deliver Israel. The Spirit of the LORD coming upon someone signifies God's direct intervention and empowerment for a specific task. In the Old Testament, this empowerment is often temporary and task-specific, unlike the New Testament indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This divine empowerment is seen in other judges like Othniel (Judges 3:10) and Gideon (Judges 6:34). It highlights God's sovereignty and ability to use flawed individuals for His purposes.

and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands
This act of strength is reminiscent of the feats of other biblical figures like David, who also killed a lion (1 Samuel 17:34-35). The lion, a symbol of power and danger, represents challenges that can only be overcome through divine strength. Samson's victory over the lion foreshadows his role as a deliverer of Israel, albeit a flawed one. This act also prefigures Christ's victory over sin and death, as lions are often symbolic of evil forces in Scripture (1 Peter 5:8).

as one would tear a young goat
This simile emphasizes the ease with which Samson defeated the lion, underscoring the extraordinary nature of his strength. In ancient Near Eastern culture, tearing a young goat was a task that required strength but was not impossible, suggesting that Samson's feat was supernaturally enabled. This imagery also connects to sacrificial practices, where goats were common offerings, hinting at themes of sacrifice and deliverance.

But he did not tell his father or mother what he had done
Samson's decision to keep this event secret may indicate a personal struggle or a lack of understanding of his calling. It reflects a pattern in Samson's life of acting independently and often impulsively. This secrecy contrasts with the transparency expected in a covenant relationship with God, highlighting Samson's complex character. It also sets the stage for future events where his actions lead to significant consequences, paralleling the hidden nature of sin and its eventual revelation.

Then Samson continued on his way down
This phrase indicates Samson's physical journey, but it also symbolizes a spiritual descent. Samson's journey to Timnah, a Philistine territory, represents a departure from his Nazirite vow and the covenantal expectations of Israel. The geographical movement "down" can be seen as a metaphor for his moral and spiritual decline. This journey is part of a larger narrative where Israel is under Philistine oppression, and Samson's actions are pivotal in God's plan to deliver Israel, despite his personal failings.

and spoke to the woman
Samson's interaction with the Philistine woman marks a significant moment in his life. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, marrying outside the Israelite community was discouraged, as it often led to idolatry and assimilation into pagan practices. This encounter foreshadows the conflict between Samson's personal desires and his divine calling. The act of speaking to her suggests a level of engagement and interest that goes beyond mere attraction, indicating the beginning of a relationship that will have significant consequences.

because she was pleasing to his eyes
This phrase highlights Samson's impulsive nature and tendency to be led by his senses rather than spiritual discernment. The emphasis on physical attraction underscores a recurring theme in Samson's life: his susceptibility to temptation and his failure to adhere to the spiritual discipline expected of a Nazirite. This mirrors the broader biblical narrative where the Israelites often succumb to the allure of foreign gods and cultures, leading to their downfall. Samson's focus on what is "pleasing to his eyes" contrasts with the biblical call to live by faith and obedience to God's commands, as seen in passages like 1 Samuel 16:7, where God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances.

When Samson returned later to take her
This phrase indicates a passage of time since Samson's initial encounter with the Philistine woman in Timnah. The act of "taking her" refers to the marriage customs of the time, where a man would formally take a woman as his wife. This reflects the cultural practice of arranged marriages and the importance of family alliances. Samson's return signifies his commitment to the marriage, despite the potential conflict with his Nazirite vow and Israelite identity.

he left the road to see the lion’s carcass
Samson's diversion from the road to view the lion's carcass is significant. The lion, which he had previously killed with his bare hands, represents his extraordinary strength given by God. The act of leaving the road can symbolize a departure from the path of righteousness or divine instruction, as touching a dead body would defile a Nazirite according to Numbers 6:6-7. This moment foreshadows Samson's struggles with temptation and his eventual downfall.

and in it was a swarm of bees, along with their honey
The presence of bees and honey in the carcass is unusual, as bees typically avoid dead bodies. This miraculous occurrence highlights God's sovereignty and the theme of bringing sweetness from death, which can be seen as a type of Christ, who brings life from death. Honey, often associated with abundance and blessing in the Bible (e.g., Exodus 3:8), contrasts with the uncleanliness of the carcass, symbolizing the tension between divine provision and human impurity. This event sets the stage for Samson's riddle at the wedding feast, which becomes a pivotal moment in his conflict with the Philistines.

So he scooped some honey into his hands and ate it as he went along.
This phrase describes Samson's action of taking honey from the carcass of a lion he had previously killed. The act of scooping honey with his hands indicates a direct and personal engagement with the substance, which is both nourishing and sweet. In biblical symbolism, honey often represents abundance and delight (Proverbs 24:13). However, the context here is complex because the honey is found in a carcass, which is ritually unclean according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11:27). Samson's Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:1-21) required him to avoid contact with dead bodies, highlighting his disregard for his consecration to God. This act foreshadows Samson's pattern of impulsive behavior and disregard for divine commandments.

And when he returned to his father and mother, he gave some to them and they ate it.
Samson sharing the honey with his parents without informing them of its source introduces themes of deception and familial relationships. In the ancient Near Eastern context, sharing food was a sign of fellowship and trust. By not disclosing the honey's origin, Samson involves his parents in his breach of the Nazirite vow, albeit unknowingly. This act can be seen as a metaphor for how sin can affect not just the individual but also those around them. It also reflects the broader narrative of Israel's disobedience and the consequences that follow.

But he did not tell them that he had taken the honey from the lion’s carcass.
The secrecy of Samson's actions underscores a recurring theme of hidden sin and its implications. This concealment is significant because it shows a lack of transparency and honesty, which are vital in a covenant relationship with God. The lion's carcass, a symbol of death and impurity, contrasts with the sweetness of the honey, illustrating the deceptive nature of sin—it may appear sweet but is rooted in defilement. This narrative can be connected to the broader biblical theme of hidden sin being eventually revealed (Numbers 32:23). Additionally, the lion, often a symbol of strength and power, can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5), yet here it is a dead lion, symbolizing the perversion of divine strength through disobedience.

Then his father went to visit the woman
This phrase indicates the involvement of Samson's father, Manoah, in the marriage process, which was customary in ancient Israelite culture. The father's role in arranging marriages was significant, reflecting the patriarchal structure of society. This visit signifies the formalization of the betrothal, a critical step in the marriage process. The woman in question is a Philistine, highlighting the tension between Israel and the Philistines, as Israelites were generally discouraged from intermarrying with foreign nations (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This sets the stage for the conflict and divine purpose that unfolds in Samson's life.

and Samson prepared a feast there
The feast mentioned here is a traditional wedding feast, which was an essential part of the marriage celebration in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Such feasts could last for several days, as seen in the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). The preparation of the feast by Samson himself may indicate his active role in the proceedings, which is somewhat unusual given the typical involvement of family and community in such events. This feast also foreshadows the events that will lead to conflict with the Philistines, as it is during this time that Samson poses his famous riddle.

as was customary for the bridegroom
This phrase underscores the cultural norms of the time, where the bridegroom was expected to host a feast for the wedding guests. The custom reflects the social and communal nature of marriage in ancient Israel, where weddings were not just personal but community events. The bridegroom's responsibility to provide a feast is a precursor to the New Testament imagery of Christ as the bridegroom (Matthew 9:15; Revelation 19:7-9), who prepares a heavenly banquet for His bride, the Church. This typology points to the ultimate fulfillment of marriage in the union between Christ and His people.

And when the Philistines saw him
The Philistines were a dominant force in the region during the time of the Judges, often oppressing the Israelites. Samson, a Nazirite from birth, was chosen by God to begin delivering Israel from Philistine control. The Philistines' observation of Samson indicates their awareness of his presence and potential threat. This moment foreshadows the tension between Samson and the Philistines, which is a recurring theme in his narrative.

they selected thirty men to accompany him
The selection of thirty men suggests a measure of both honor and surveillance. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was customary to provide companions or attendants for guests, especially during wedding feasts. However, the number thirty may also imply a precautionary measure, as Samson's reputation for strength and unpredictability was likely known. This group could serve as both witnesses to the marriage and as a means to keep an eye on Samson, ensuring he did not cause trouble. This act sets the stage for the riddle challenge that follows, which becomes a pivotal moment in the conflict between Samson and the Philistines.

“Let me tell you a riddle,” Samson said to them.
Samson's use of a riddle reflects the ancient Near Eastern tradition of using riddles as a form of entertainment and intellectual challenge. Riddles were often used to test wisdom and understanding, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Solomon's interactions with the Queen of Sheba. Samson's riddle is a pivotal moment in his narrative, showcasing his cleverness but also foreshadowing the conflict that arises from his interactions with the Philistines.

“If you can solve it for me within the seven days of the feast,
The seven-day feast is indicative of a traditional wedding celebration in ancient Israelite culture, which often lasted a week. This period is significant as it aligns with the time of celebration and covenant-making, yet it becomes a time of tension and betrayal for Samson. The number seven is also symbolic in the Bible, often representing completeness or perfection, which contrasts with the imperfect and tumultuous events that unfold.

I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes.
The wager of thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes highlights the wealth and status involved in such a bet. Linen garments were considered valuable and were often associated with nobility and priestly attire, as seen in Exodus 28:39-42. The mention of clothing also has deeper biblical symbolism, often representing righteousness or identity. In this context, the garments symbolize the stakes of the riddle and the ensuing conflict, as well as the cultural importance of honor and reputation in ancient societies.

But if you cannot solve it,
This phrase is part of a challenge issued by Samson during his wedding feast. The context is a seven-day celebration, typical of ancient Near Eastern wedding customs. Samson's challenge involves a riddle, a common form of entertainment and intellectual exercise in ancient cultures. The inability to solve the riddle would result in a forfeit, highlighting the competitive nature of such feasts.

you must give me thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes.”
The wager involves thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothes, which were valuable items in ancient times. Linen was a luxury fabric, often associated with wealth and status. The number thirty may symbolize completeness or a significant group, as seen in other biblical contexts. This demand underscores the seriousness of the challenge and the potential for significant loss or gain.

“Tell us your riddle,” they replied.
The response of the Philistine companions shows their willingness to engage in the challenge. Riddles were a popular form of entertainment and intellectual challenge in the ancient world, often used to test wisdom and understanding. This interaction sets the stage for the unfolding drama, as the riddle becomes a pivotal element in the narrative.

“Let us hear it.”
Their eagerness to hear the riddle reflects the cultural value placed on wit and cleverness. This moment foreshadows the tension and conflict that will arise from the riddle's solution. The request to hear the riddle also indicates a formal acceptance of the challenge, binding them to the terms set by Samson.

So he said to them:
Samson, the judge of Israel, is speaking to the Philistines at his wedding feast. This setting is significant as it highlights the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines, who were oppressors of Israel during this period. Samson's role as a judge is unique, as he often acts independently rather than leading Israel in battle.

Out of the eater came something to eat,
This phrase refers to the lion that Samson killed earlier in the chapter. The lion, a symbol of strength and ferocity, is the "eater." The honey found in the carcass represents something unexpected and nourishing coming from a source of danger. This riddle is a metaphor for God's ability to bring good out of evil situations, a theme seen throughout the Bible, such as in Joseph's story (Genesis 50:20).

and out of the strong came something sweet.
The "strong" again refers to the lion, and the "sweet" is the honey. This imagery can be seen as a type of Christ, who is both the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) and the source of spiritual sweetness and sustenance. The paradox of strength producing sweetness can also be seen in the life of Christ, who through His suffering and death brought salvation and grace.

For three days they were unable to explain the riddle.
The three days the Philistines struggled with the riddle can be seen as symbolic, as the number three often represents completeness or divine intervention in the Bible. This period of confusion foreshadows the resurrection of Christ, who rose on the third day, bringing clarity and victory over sin and death. The inability of the Philistines to solve the riddle without external help highlights human limitations and the need for divine revelation.

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.

Then Samson’s wife came to him, weeping, and said,
Samson's wife, a Philistine woman from Timnah, approaches him in tears. This reflects the emotional manipulation often seen in relationships where one party seeks to gain something from the other. In the cultural context, women had limited power and often resorted to emotional appeals to influence their husbands. The weeping indicates the seriousness of her request and her desperation, possibly due to pressure from her people.

“You hate me! You do not really love me!
Her accusation of hatred and lack of love is a tactic to elicit guilt and compliance. In the ancient Near Eastern context, love and loyalty were crucial in marriage, and questioning them was a significant charge. This reflects the tension between personal relationships and cultural or familial obligations, a recurring theme in biblical narratives.

You have posed to my people a riddle, but have not explained it to me.”
The riddle Samson posed was part of the wedding feast, a common practice in ancient times to entertain guests. The riddle itself, based on his encounter with the lion and the honey, symbolizes the secretive and enigmatic nature of God's plans, which are often hidden from human understanding. Her reference to "my people" highlights her divided loyalties between her husband and her Philistine kin.

“Look,” he said, “I have not even explained it to my father or mother,
Samson's response emphasizes the importance of family ties and the trust inherent within them. By stating he hasn't even told his parents, he underscores the riddle's significance and his own sense of loyalty and secrecy. This reflects the biblical theme of the family unit as a primary social structure, often used to illustrate spiritual truths.

so why should I explain it to you?”
Samson's rhetorical question points to the hierarchy of relationships and trust. In the biblical context, this highlights the tension between marital and familial obligations. It also foreshadows the eventual betrayal by his wife, paralleling the later betrayal by Delilah, and serves as a type of Christ, who was also betrayed by those close to Him. This phrase underscores the theme of trust and betrayal that runs throughout the narrative of Samson's life.

She wept the whole seven days of the feast
In ancient Israel, wedding feasts typically lasted seven days, a time of celebration and joy. However, Samson's wife weeping throughout the feast indicates a significant disruption to the expected festivities. Her persistent weeping reflects the cultural and emotional pressure she faced, possibly from her Philistine kin, to extract the answer to Samson's riddle. This act of weeping can be seen as a form of manipulation, a tactic used to wear down Samson's resolve. The number seven is often symbolic in the Bible, representing completeness or perfection, which contrasts with the imperfect and deceitful nature of the events unfolding.

and finally on the seventh day, because she had pressed him so much, he told her the answer
Samson's eventual capitulation to his wife's persistent pleading highlights human weakness and the power of emotional manipulation. This moment foreshadows later events in Samson's life, particularly his relationship with Delilah, where he again succumbs to persistent pressure. The seventh day, being the culmination of the feast, underscores the urgency and intensity of the situation. This narrative also reflects the broader biblical theme of temptation and the struggle to remain faithful to one's commitments.

And in turn she explained the riddle to her people
The act of Samson's wife revealing the riddle's answer to her people, the Philistines, underscores themes of betrayal and divided loyalties. Her actions can be seen as prioritizing her allegiance to her people over her new husband, reflecting the complex dynamics of intermarriage between Israelites and Philistines. This betrayal sets the stage for the ensuing conflict between Samson and the Philistines, illustrating the broader theme of Israel's struggle with surrounding nations. The riddle itself, derived from Samson's encounter with the lion and the honey, serves as a metaphor for the hidden truths and the consequences of revealing them.

Before sunset on the seventh day, the men of the city said to Samson:
The timing here is significant, as the seventh day marks the completion of a week, often symbolizing completion or perfection in biblical terms. The men of the city, the Philistines, were under pressure to solve Samson's riddle to avoid the consequences of their wager. This reflects the cultural practice of riddles and challenges in ancient times, often used to demonstrate wisdom or cunning. The urgency before sunset indicates their desperation and the importance of the deadline.

“What is sweeter than honey? And what is stronger than a lion?”
The riddle's answer is directly tied to Samson's earlier encounter with a lion, where he killed it and later found bees and honey in its carcass. Honey, often a symbol of abundance and pleasure in the Bible, contrasts with the strength and ferocity of a lion, a common symbol of power. This phrase highlights the Philistines' cunning in extracting the answer from Samson's wife, reflecting the theme of betrayal and deceit.

So he said to them:
Samson's response is immediate and accusatory, indicating his awareness of their deceit. This interaction underscores the tension between Samson and the Philistines, setting the stage for further conflict. It also reflects the personal nature of the betrayal, as it involves his wife.

“If you had not plowed with my heifer, you would not have solved my riddle!”
The metaphor of "plowing with my heifer" is a vivid expression of betrayal, suggesting that the Philistines used his wife to manipulate and deceive him. In ancient agricultural societies, a heifer was a valuable asset, and the metaphor implies misuse of something precious to Samson. This phrase also foreshadows the ongoing conflict between Samson and the Philistines, as it reveals the personal and communal tensions that drive the narrative. The use of agricultural imagery connects to the agrarian context of the time, where such metaphors would be readily understood.

Then the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him
This phrase indicates divine empowerment, a recurring theme in the Book of Judges where God raises leaders to deliver Israel. The Spirit's coming upon Samson signifies God's direct intervention, enabling him to perform feats beyond human capability. This empowerment is similar to other judges like Othniel (Judges 3:10) and Gideon (Judges 6:34). It highlights the sovereignty of God in using flawed individuals for His purposes.

and he went down to Ashkelon
Ashkelon was one of the five major Philistine cities, located on the Mediterranean coast. Its mention here underscores the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines. The geographical movement from Samson's location to Ashkelon indicates a deliberate action, possibly reflecting the tension and hostility between the Israelites and the Philistines.

killed thirty of their men
This act of violence is a direct consequence of the Spirit's empowerment, showcasing Samson's role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. The number thirty may symbolize completeness or a significant impact, as it provided the exact number of garments needed. This action also foreshadows the ongoing cycle of violence and retaliation between Samson and the Philistines.

took their apparel
In ancient times, clothing was a valuable commodity, often used as a form of wealth or barter. By taking the apparel of the slain men, Samson fulfills his obligation from the riddle wager (Judges 14:12-13). This act also signifies a transfer of honor and wealth from the Philistines to Samson, albeit through violent means.

and gave their clothes to those who had solved the riddle
This phrase completes the narrative of the riddle challenge, where Samson's wife had coerced the answer from him. The giving of clothes fulfills his promise, albeit through an unexpected and violent method. It highlights the themes of deception and betrayal that run throughout Samson's story.

And burning with anger
Samson's anger reflects his personal vendetta and emotional volatility, traits that characterize much of his life. This anger is not just personal but also indicative of the larger conflict between Israel and the Philistines. It sets the stage for further acts of vengeance and conflict in the narrative.

Samson returned to his father’s house
Returning to his father's house signifies a retreat or withdrawal, possibly indicating a temporary cessation of hostilities. It also reflects the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where the father's house was a place of refuge and authority. This return may symbolize a moment of reflection or regrouping before future actions.

and his wife
In the context of Judges 14, "his wife" refers to the Philistine woman from Timnah whom Samson had married. This marriage was part of God's plan to create conflict between Samson and the Philistines, as seen earlier in Judges 14:4. The Philistines were oppressors of Israel, and this union was unusual because Israelites were generally discouraged from marrying outside their faith and community (Deuteronomy 7:3-4).

was given
The phrase "was given" indicates a transfer of possession or responsibility, which was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. Marriages were often arranged and controlled by families or communities, and women were sometimes treated as property. This act of giving Samson's wife to another man highlights the lack of agency women had in these situations and reflects the patriarchal society of the time.

to one of the men
This refers to one of the companions or friends who had been with Samson during the wedding feast. These men were likely Philistines, as they were part of the wedding celebration in Timnah. The presence of these men underscores the cultural and social interactions between the Israelites and the Philistines, despite their enmity.

who had accompanied him
The men who accompanied Samson were part of the wedding party, possibly serving as groomsmen or companions. In Judges 14:11, it is mentioned that thirty companions were brought to be with him, which was a customary practice to honor the groom. This detail emphasizes the betrayal and the broken trust, as one of these companions was given Samson's wife, further fueling the conflict between Samson and the Philistines.

This event sets the stage for the subsequent actions of Samson, leading to his vengeance against the Philistines, which is a recurring theme in his narrative. The personal betrayal Samson experiences here is a catalyst for his later exploits and serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between personal relationships and divine purposes in the biblical narrative.