Judges 16:14

So while he slept, Delilah took the seven braids of his hair and wove them into the web. Then she tightened it with a pin and called to him, "Samson, the Philistines are here!" But he awoke from his sleep and pulled out the pin with the loom and the web.

Study Bible

So while he slept
Samson's sleep signifies a state of vulnerability and unawareness. Sleep in the Bible often symbolizes a lack of spiritual vigilance (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Samson's physical strength was unmatched, but his spiritual discernment was weak, leading to his downfall.

Delilah took the seven braids of his hair
The seven braids represent the Nazirite vow, which included not cutting one's hair (Numbers 6:5). Delilah's actions symbolize betrayal and the breaking of a covenant. The number seven often signifies completeness or divine perfection in the Bible, highlighting the gravity of this act.

and wove them into the web
This act of weaving can be seen as a metaphor for entanglement in sin. The web represents a trap, similar to how sin ensnares individuals (Hebrews 12:1). Delilah's weaving is a physical manifestation of the spiritual entrapment Samson faces.

Then she tightened it with a pin
The pin signifies the finality and firmness of the trap. In ancient weaving, a pin would secure the threads, symbolizing how sin can become firmly rooted in one's life. This act shows Delilah's determination to subdue Samson.

and called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are here!”
Delilah's call is a repeated tactic to test Samson's strength (Judges 16:6, 16:9, 16:12). The Philistines were long-time oppressors of Israel, representing the constant threat of worldly powers against God's people. This call to Samson is a reminder of the ever-present danger of falling into enemy hands.

But he awoke from his sleep
Samson's awakening is a moment of realization and action. It parallels spiritual awakening, where one becomes aware of their sinful state and the need for repentance (Ephesians 5:14). However, Samson's awakening is temporary, as he does not fully grasp the spiritual implications of his actions.

and pulled out the pin with the loom and the web
Samson's physical strength allows him to escape the immediate trap, but it foreshadows his eventual downfall when his strength is truly compromised (Judges 16:19-21). This act demonstrates that while he can break free physically, he remains spiritually bound. The pulling out of the pin signifies a temporary victory over sin, but without true repentance, the cycle continues.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was linked to his Nazirite vow and uncut hair.

2. Delilah
A woman from the Valley of Sorek who was bribed by the Philistine rulers to discover the secret of Samson's strength.

3. Philistines
A group of people who were enemies of Israel and sought to capture and subdue Samson.

4. Valley of Sorek
The location where Delilah lived and where Samson frequently visited her.

5. Nazirite Vow
A vow taken by individuals to be set apart for God, which included abstaining from cutting one's hair, consuming alcohol, and avoiding contact with dead bodies.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Compromise
Samson's repeated visits to Delilah show how small compromises can lead to significant downfalls. Believers should guard against compromising their values and commitments.

The Power of Influence
Delilah's influence over Samson demonstrates the impact others can have on our lives. Christians should be mindful of the influences they allow into their lives and relationships.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Weakness
Despite Samson's failures, God used him to fulfill His purposes. This reminds us that God can work through our weaknesses and failures for His glory.

The Importance of Vigilance
Samson's account warns of the dangers of spiritual complacency. Believers must remain vigilant and prayerful to avoid falling into temptation.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Samson's eventual downfall serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of disobedience to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samson's relationship with Delilah illustrate the dangers of compromising one's faith and values? Can you identify areas in your life where you might be compromising?

2. In what ways can the account of Samson and Delilah serve as a warning about the influences we allow into our lives? How can you apply this lesson to your current relationships?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness despite your own weaknesses or failures. How does this encourage you in your walk with God?

4. What steps can you take to remain vigilant against spiritual complacency and temptation in your daily life?

5. How does the account of Samson challenge you to consider the consequences of disobedience to God's commands? What changes might you need to make to align more closely with God's will?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 13-16
The broader account of Samson's life, including his birth, exploits, and eventual downfall.

Numbers 6
The chapter detailing the Nazirite vow, which provides context for the significance of Samson's uncut hair.

Proverbs 7
Offers wisdom on the dangers of succumbing to temptation and the allure of deceptive relationships.

1 Corinthians 10:13
Encourages believers that God provides a way out of temptation, relevant to Samson's repeated entanglement with Delilah.

Hebrews 11:32
Mentions Samson in the "Hall of Faith," highlighting his role in God's plan despite his flaws.