Definition: And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.
Explanation:
Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:28. It’s a really fascinating and dramatic story about a man named Samson! Here's an explanation in simpler terms:
The Basic Story:
Samson is a Skilled Warrior:
Samson was a very talented and powerful man who was known for his incredible strength and skill with a sword.
He Wants to Be Remembered:
Samson felt incredibly proud of himself and wanted to be remembered as something significant, even in death. He wasn’t just looking for a comfortable afterlife; he wanted to be remembered
as
someone who had been wronged.
He's Asking God for Help:
He’s essentially pleading with God to remember him, and more importantly, to
strengthen him
so he can be avenged (pun intended!). He wants a single, decisive act of punishment against the Philistines – the people who were attacking him.
“O Lord GOD, remember me…”
This is Samson’s direct plea. He's asking for God to acknowledge his existence and give him a chance to be punished.
Putting it Together - A Possible Interpretation:
This verse speaks to a period of intense suffering and betrayal for Samson. He was repeatedly tricked and robbed by the Philistines, who sought to take his strength and life. He was essentially trapped in a cycle of hardship.
“I pray thee, strengthen me…”
– This shows he’s desperate for help.
“…only this once, O God…”
- He's asking for a single, powerful act that will finally end the suffering. It's a plea for a final, decisive victory.
Important Note:
The Bible doesn't explicitly say
how
God should remember him. It’s more about Samson's desire to be remembered as a victim and to achieve a final, impactful outcome.
Why it’s significant:
This passage highlights themes of:
Divine Justice:
God is actively intervening in human affairs, delivering justice and retribution.
The Power of Suffering:
It shows how suffering can drive people to seek vengeance or redemption.
The Importance of Remembering the Deceased:
It suggests that remembering those who have suffered is a way for us to honor their memory and find meaning in our lives.
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Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail, like its historical context, or its theological significance? For example, would you like to know:
More about the reasons for Samson's suffering?
The idea behind "avengement" in biblical terms?