The term "Timnite" refers to an inhabitant of Timnah, a town mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of the narratives surrounding Samson, one of the judges of Israel. Timnah is located in the territory allotted to the tribe of Dan, although it is also associated with the tribe of Judah in certain passages. The town's geographical and cultural setting plays a significant role in the biblical accounts, particularly in the Book of Judges.

Biblical References

1. Judges 14:1-2 : "One day Samson went down to Timnah, where he saw a young Philistine woman. So he returned and told his father and mother, 'I have seen a young Philistine woman in Timnah. Now get her for me as a wife.'"

In this passage, Timnah is depicted as a Philistine town, indicating the presence of Philistines within the region traditionally associated with Israelite tribes. Samson's desire to marry a Philistine woman from Timnah sets the stage for a series of events that highlight the tension between the Israelites and the Philistines.

2. 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."

The vineyards of Timnah are the setting for one of Samson's notable feats of strength, where he kills a lion with his bare hands. This event is significant as it foreshadows Samson's future conflicts with the Philistines and demonstrates the Spirit of the Lord empowering him.

3. Judges 15:6 : "When the Philistines asked, 'Who did this?' they were told, 'Samson, the son-in-law of the Timnite, because his wife was given to his companion.' So the Philistines went up and burned her and her father to death."

Here, the term "Timnite" is used to refer to Samson's father-in-law, indicating his association with the town of Timnah. This passage underscores the tragic consequences of the intermarriage between Samson and the Philistine woman, leading to further hostilities.

Cultural and Historical Context

Timnah's location and its association with both the tribes of Dan and Judah suggest a complex cultural and political landscape during the period of the Judges. The presence of Philistines in Timnah reflects the broader Philistine influence and control over parts of the coastal and lowland regions of ancient Israel during this time.

The narratives involving Timnah and the Timnites illustrate the recurring theme of Israel's struggle with surrounding nations and the consequences of compromising relationships with them. Samson's interactions with the Timnites serve as a microcosm of the larger conflict between Israel and the Philistines, highlighting issues of faithfulness, identity, and divine empowerment.

Archaeological Insights

Archaeological excavations in the region traditionally identified as Timnah have provided insights into the historical and cultural context of the area. Findings suggest a blend of Canaanite and Philistine influences, consistent with the biblical portrayal of Timnah as a site of cultural intersection and conflict.

Theological Significance

The account of the Timnites in the account of Samson emphasizes themes of divine sovereignty and human agency. Despite Samson's personal failings and the tragic outcomes of his relationships, the narrative demonstrates God's ability to use flawed individuals to achieve His purposes. The events at Timnah serve as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant and the dangers of assimilation with surrounding cultures.

Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ...
... Then they inquired who this thing had done, And were inform'd it was the Timnite's
son; Because his father took his wife away, And gave her his companion to ...
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Timnite's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Timnite's (1 Occurrence). Judges 15:6 Then the
Philistines said: 'Who hath done this?' And they said: 'Samson ...
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Timnite (1 Occurrence)
...TIMNITE. tim'-nit (timni Thamnathaios): The father of Samson's wife, a native of
Timnah (Judges 15:6). Multi-Version Concordance Timnite (1 Occurrence). ...
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Timon (1 Occurrence)

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