Judges 15:7

And Samson told them, "Because you have done this, I will not rest until I have taken vengeance upon you."

Study Bible

And Samson told them
Samson, a judge of Israel, is speaking to the Philistines. This reflects his role as a leader and deliverer of Israel, chosen by God to begin the deliverance from Philistine oppression (Judges 13:5). His communication with the Philistines highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, a dominant theme in the book of Judges.

Because you have done this
The Philistines had wronged Samson by giving his wife to another man, which was a personal affront and a violation of social customs of marriage and loyalty. This act of betrayal is a catalyst for Samson's actions, illustrating the cycle of personal vendetta and retaliation common in the ancient Near Eastern culture.

I will not rest
Samson's declaration of unrest signifies his determination and the seriousness of his vow. It reflects the cultural importance of honor and retribution in ancient societies. This phrase also underscores the relentless nature of Samson's character, often driven by personal motives rather than divine instruction.

until I have taken vengeance upon you
Vengeance is a recurring theme in Samson's life, often leading to violent confrontations. This reflects the lex talionis, or law of retaliation, prevalent in ancient legal systems (Exodus 21:24). Samson's actions can be seen as a type of divine justice, albeit through flawed human execution. This foreshadows the ultimate justice and redemption found in Jesus Christ, who, unlike Samson, offers forgiveness and reconciliation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. He was a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth, and his life was marked by personal struggles and conflicts with the Philistines.

2. Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel during the time of the Judges. They oppressed the Israelites and were often in conflict with them.

3. Vengeance
The act of taking revenge. In this context, Samson is responding to a personal wrong done to him by the Philistines, which involved the burning of his wife and her father.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Personal Vengeance
Samson's desire for revenge highlights the human tendency to take matters into our own hands. This often leads to a cycle of violence and retribution, which can have devastating consequences.

Trusting in God's Justice
As believers, we are called to trust in God's perfect justice rather than seeking our own revenge. This requires faith and patience, knowing that God sees all and will act in His perfect timing.

The Dangers of Anger
Samson's anger led him to act impulsively. Anger, when not controlled, can lead to sin and further complications. We must learn to manage our emotions and seek God's guidance in times of conflict.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
Samson's strength was a gift from God, symbolizing the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. As Christians, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges and live according to God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's response to the Philistines reflect human nature's inclination towards revenge, and how can we overcome this tendency in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Samson challenge us to trust in God's justice rather than taking matters into our own hands?

3. How can we apply the teachings of Romans 12:19 and Deuteronomy 32:35 to situations where we feel wronged or hurt?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to manage anger and prevent it from leading to sin, as seen in Samson's life?

5. How does the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in Samson's life encourage us to rely on God's strength in our daily challenges and conflicts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 14-16
These chapters provide the broader account of Samson's life, including his feats of strength, his conflicts with the Philistines, and his eventual downfall.

Romans 12:19
This verse speaks about leaving vengeance to God, contrasting with Samson's personal quest for revenge.

Deuteronomy 32:35
This passage emphasizes that vengeance belongs to the Lord, providing a theological backdrop to understand the concept of divine justice versus personal revenge.