Judges 15:17

And when Samson had finished speaking, he cast the jawbone from his hand; and he named that place Ramath-lehi.

Study Bible

When Samson had finished speaking
This phrase marks the conclusion of a significant moment of triumph for Samson. The Hebrew root for "finished speaking" (כַּלּוֹת) suggests completion and fulfillment. In the context of Judges, Samson's words often precede or follow acts of divine empowerment. His speech here likely reflects a declaration of victory or a prayer of thanksgiving, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's role in his achievements.

he cast the jawbone from his hand
The act of casting away the jawbone signifies a release or relinquishment of the instrument of victory. The Hebrew word for "cast" (שָׁלַךְ) can imply a forceful or deliberate action. This gesture may symbolize Samson's recognition that the victory was not by his own strength but by the Spirit of the Lord. The jawbone, a seemingly insignificant tool, becomes a symbol of God's power to use the humble and unexpected to achieve His purposes.

and he named that place Ramath-lehi
Naming places in the Bible often serves to commemorate significant events or divine encounters. "Ramath-lehi" translates to "the hill of the jawbone" or "Jawbone Hill." The act of naming the location underscores the importance of remembering God's deliverance. In the broader scriptural context, such names serve as lasting testimonies to God's faithfulness and intervention in the lives of His people. The Hebrew tradition of naming places after events ensures that future generations remember and learn from God's mighty acts.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Jawbone
The weapon Samson used to defeat a thousand Philistines. It symbolizes God's provision and strength in unexpected forms.

3. Ramath-lehi
The place where Samson discarded the jawbone. The name means "Hill of the Jawbone," commemorating the victory God granted through Samson.

4. Philistines
The enemies of Israel during Samson's time. They were a constant threat and oppressors of the Israelites.

5. God's Deliverance
The event of Samson's victory over the Philistines with the jawbone is a testament to God's deliverance and empowerment of His chosen leaders.

Teaching Points

God's Strength in Weakness
God often uses the weak and unexpected to accomplish His purposes, reminding us that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

Divine Provision
Just as God provided Samson with a jawbone, He provides us with the resources we need to face our battles. Trust in His provision, even when it seems unconventional.

Commemorating God's Victories
Naming the place Ramath-lehi serves as a reminder of God's deliverance. We should also remember and commemorate the victories God grants us in our lives.

The Importance of Obedience
Samson's life is a reminder of the importance of obedience to God. While God can use our failures for His glory, our lives are more fruitful when we walk in obedience.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human flaws, God's sovereign plan prevails. We can trust that He is in control and working all things for good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Samson and the jawbone challenge our understanding of strength and weakness in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in unexpected forms in our daily challenges?

3. How can we commemorate and remember the victories God has given us, similar to how Samson named Ramath-lehi?

4. What lessons can we learn from Samson's life about the consequences of disobedience and the importance of aligning our actions with God's will?

5. How does the account of Samson encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when our circumstances seem overwhelming?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 14-16
These chapters provide the broader account of Samson's life, highlighting his feats and failures, and God's faithfulness despite human weakness.

1 Samuel 17
David's victory over Goliath with a sling and a stone parallels Samson's victory with the jawbone, showcasing God's power in using unlikely means to achieve His purposes.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Samson is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith," illustrating that despite his imperfections, his faith and actions were part of God's redemptive history.