Definition: But it came to pass within a while after, in the time of wheat harvest, that Samson visited his wife with a kid; and he said, I will go in to my wife into the chamber. But her father would not suffer him to go in.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 15:1. It’s a really interesting story about a man named Samson and his wife. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Samson is having problems: Samson was a very strong and talented man in Israel. He was known for his incredible strength and skill with weapons. He’s visiting his wife: He decides to go visit his wife, who is also pregnant. His father forbids it: Samson's father, who is worried about his son’s safety and well-being, tells him not to go in to her chamber. What does this mean? It’s a bit more complex than just a simple “he didn’t go.” Here are some possible interpretations: A Warning About His Behavior: This verse is likely a warning from God about Samson's actions. It suggests he was engaging in something that was potentially dangerous or sinful. He was involved in something illicit: The father’s refusal to allow him to visit his wife could be interpreted as a sign that Samson was becoming obsessed with his own desires, perhaps involving women and possibly even compromising his relationship with God. It points to a possible moral transgression. A Test of His Faith: It might also be viewed as a test of Samson's faith – is he truly devoted to God, or is he drifting away from the path? Key Takeaway: This verse presents a situation where Samson’s actions are causing concern and suggests a potential need for him to turn back to God. It highlights a tension between his strength and his behavior. --- Important Note: This passage is a bit mysterious and open to interpretation. Different theologians and biblical scholars have offered various explanations over the centuries. Would you like me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific aspect of this story (like Samson’s character or the context of the time)?

Definition: And the men of Judah said, Why are ye come up against us? And they answered, To bind Samson are we come up, to do to him as he hath done to us.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:10. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage about a powerful rebellion. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samson was a giant and incredibly strong man. He was known for his incredible power, and he was considered a divine being by the Israelites. A group of men from Judah (a region in Israel) started attacking the Israelites. They were essentially trying to harm Samson. They responded with a deliberate plan to punish him. They wanted to do something incredibly cruel to Samson – something he’d done to them before. What it Means - A Bit More Detailed: The verse basically says: "These men from Judah, they're coming against us and are trying to hurt Samson as he hurt us. They want to inflict a punishment on him." Key Takeaways & Context: It’s about revenge: This is a very angry and vengeful response. It’s not just a simple disagreement; it’s a deliberate act of retribution. It highlights the power imbalance: Samson's strength was legendary. This event demonstrates how powerful a single person could be, and that their actions could have devastating consequences for others. It points to a larger conflict: The story of Samson is often seen as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of resisting those who seek to harm others. Important Note: This verse isn’t meant to be interpreted literally. It's a symbolic representation of a time when Israel was facing a serious threat and needed to act decisively to protect itself. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or would you like me to delve into its significance within the larger context of the Bible? For example, we could talk about: The role of Samson in the Old Testament The themes of revenge and justice found in the book of Judges

Definition: Then three thousand men of Judah went to the top of the rock Etam, and said to Samson, Knowest thou not that the Philistines [are] rulers over us? what [is] this [that] thou hast done unto us? And he said unto them, As they did unto me, so have I done unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:11. It’s a really fascinating and dramatic passage about Samson and his struggle with the Philistines. Here's a simplified explanation: What’s Happening? The Setup: Samson was a very talented wrestler, incredibly strong and skilled. He was being challenged by the Philistine people – they were ruling over Israel at that time. The Confrontation: Samson’s challenge to them is a HUGE deal. He’s essentially asking, “Why did you do this? What are you doing to us?” The Response: Samson replies with a lot of anger and defiance. He says, "As I have done unto thee, so have I done unto them." What Does It Mean? This is where it gets really interesting. It’s not just a simple statement of blame. Here's what it suggests: The Philistines are in charge now: Samson had been wrestling with God’s chosen people, and the Philistines were taking over. A Pattern of Abuse: Samson was treating the Israelites (and all of Israel) badly – perhaps even unjustly – and he was demanding that they do the same to him. The “As I have done unto thee…” is a warning: It’s like saying, "This isn't right. This is harmful." It points to a pattern of behavior where Samson was causing trouble and distress. A Bit of Context (Important!) This verse comes after a significant period where Samson had been repeatedly defeated in wrestling matches. The Philistines were gaining power, and Samson’s struggles were increasingly viewed as a threat. In essence, it's a story about a powerful man who was being abused and causing trouble for everyone around him. Key Takeaway: It’s a message about the importance of righteous leadership and respecting others – even when you are in a difficult situation. Do you want to explore any particular aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context? Discuss the symbolism behind Samson's story?

Definition: And they said unto him, We are come down to bind thee, that we may deliver thee into the hand of the Philistines. And Samson said unto them, Swear unto me, that ye will not fall upon me yourselves.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 15:12. It’s a really dramatic and important part of the story of Samson. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: The Threat: A group of Philistines (a tribe of people living near the Mediterranean Sea) are planning to attack Samson. They're determined to capture him and his fame. A Deal: The Philists have already tried to bind Samson, meaning they’ve tried to hold him captive. They’re essentially saying, “We want to take you away from your people.” Samson’s Plea: Samson, the famous acrobat and magician, responds with a serious vow – he’s swearing to not be harmed by anyone himself. Putting it Together - The Meaning: This verse is about Samson's incredible strength and resilience. He's recognizing that his power and fame are a danger. He’s essentially making a promise to protect himself from being taken advantage of. It shows him understanding the importance of not relying solely on his own abilities. Key Takeaway: Samson is demonstrating a crucial quality: self-preservation. He's acknowledging that he needs protection and that his fame isn’t enough to shield him. It speaks to the idea that true strength comes from knowing your value and protecting yourself. Context (Briefly): This verse comes after Samson has been captured and held captive by the Philistines. It’s a moment of significant vulnerability for him, but also a powerful declaration of his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?

Definition: And they spake unto him, saying, No; but we will bind thee fast, and deliver thee into their hand: but surely we will not kill thee. And they bound him with two new cords, and brought him up from the rock.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 15:13. It’s a really dramatic and important story about a powerful man who was being held captive. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Powerful Man is Held Captive: A man named “the man of the rock” (we don't know his name) was being held captive by a group of people. He was incredibly powerful, and they wanted to keep him for their own purposes. They Tried to Kill Him: The leaders of this group weren’t happy with him and tried to kill him. They Made It Impossible to Die: Instead of killing him outright, they decided to make it impossible for him to die. They used two powerful ropes (cords) to bind him fast. They Brought Him Up: They then carefully lifted him up from the rock – this could be a mountain or a significant landmark. Putting It All Together - A Simple Explanation: This verse tells us that these people were incredibly determined to prevent a powerful man from harming them. They took extreme measures, using ropes and lifting him up, to ensure he couldn't escape their control. Key Takeaway: It’s a story about the importance of protecting those who are vulnerable and preventing someone with immense power from being harmed. It also highlights the lengths people will go to in order to maintain control over others. Context & Significance: This passage is part of a larger narrative in the Old Testament, particularly within the Book of Judges. It’s often seen as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the need for vigilance against those who might seek to oppress or harm others. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this story is important? Give you another biblical verse with a similar theme?

Definition: [And] when he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted against him: and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and the cords that [were] upon his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands loosed from off his hands.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:14. It’s a really dramatic passage about a powerful, righteous man named Joshua being attacked. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Joshua was leading Israel into Canaan (a new land) when a group of Philistine warriors – likely led by a ruthless man named Jafreel – came after him and started attacking him. They were determined to stop him from reaching his destination. What Happened Next: The Attack Begins: The Philistines shouted angrily at Joshua, and the Spirit of God (God’s power) came rushing to help him! The Binding: Suddenly, the Philistine warriors began to bind Joshua’s arms and hands with ropes. These ropes were strong enough to burn them – like turning them into something unusable. Turning into Flax: The really intense part is that the ropes became flax . Flax is a type of plant used for making fabric, and it's incredibly flammable. It was burned to ash! So, what does this mean? This verse describes a powerful display of God’s judgment against Joshua. It’s not just about him being physically attacked; it’s a symbolic representation of God using His power to destroy the evil and wickedness of the Philistines. Key Takeaways: God's Justice: This verse shows that God is very active in protecting His people and punishing those who oppose them. Divine Power: It highlights how God’s power can be incredibly destructive when used for righteous purposes. Symbolic Representation: The flax burning symbolizes the removal of evil and the destruction of wickedness. In short, it's a vivid image of God using His might to completely bind and destroy those who oppose Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Provide context about Joshua’s situation? Discuss the significance of the flax imagery in more detail?

Definition: And he found a new jawbone of an ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand men therewith.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 15:15. It’s a really significant and dramatic moment in the story of the Israelites’ exile. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Giant Beast: The story begins with a massive, terrifying beast – a giant, monstrous animal – appearing in the desert. It was so large that it was blocking the path to the promised land and causing immense fear and distress for the Israelites. The Israelite Soldiers Strike It Down: The Israelites, under the leadership of Gideon, found this beast. They were terrified, but they realized it posed a serious threat to their safety and the future of their people. So, they bravely attacked it. A Deadly Encounter: They managed to kill the beast – a huge victory for the Israelites! What Does This Verse Mean? This verse is a bit unsettling because it describes a very brutal act: “A new jawbone of an ass” : This doesn’t mean a normal animal. It means a giant, incredibly large, and monstrous ass – almost like a massive, undead beast. It's a symbolic representation of the overwhelming power of this evil. “Put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand men therewith” : This is the core of the verse. The Israelites, with their combined force, managed to kill a thousand animals (presumably more than just the beast). They actively took the beast down – this demonstrates their courage and determined action. What’s the Significance? This verse has a few layers of meaning: A Sign of God’s Power: It's a clear demonstration that God is in control and capable of defeating even the most terrifying forces. Punishment for Sin: The story often represents a punishment for sin. The giant beast was a symbol of evil, and the Israelites’ action of killing it symbolizes God punishing their disobedience and rebellion. A Reminder to Be Vigilant: It's a warning to the Israelites to remain watchful and prepared for danger – always being vigilant against evil. In short, this verse tells us that God is powerful, and his people must be ready to confront evil with courage and faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the symbolism behind the beast? Connect this verse to a larger theme in the Bible (like judgment or perseverance)?

Definition: And Samson said, With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps, with the jaw of an ass have I slain a thousand men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:16. It’s a really powerful and somewhat shocking statement about Samson's actions. Here's a simple explanation: What it means in plain language: “Judges 15:16 says that Samson used a jawbone of an ass – basically, a skull – to create massive piles of stones on top of each other. He killed a thousand men doing this.” Let’s unpack the details: Judges 15: This is part of a larger story in the Old Testament about Samson, a charismatic and talented man who was incredibly powerful. “With the jawbone of an ass…” This is the key part. It’s not just any ass skull. It’s a specific skull – one that had been broken open and used as a foundation for his pile. This suggests a deliberate, ritualistic act. “…he has slain a thousand men.” This is the consequence of this action. Samson’s act of creating these massive piles of stones resulted in the deaths of a thousand people. What's the significance? This verse is incredibly significant because it paints a picture of: Extreme Violence: It shows Samson's actions were incredibly brutal and destructive. Ritualistic Behavior: The act wasn’t just random; it was part of a planned ritual, possibly related to a god or a specific purpose. The use of the jawbone suggests a focus on death and sacrifice. A Turning Point in the Story: It marks a significant shift in Samson's storyline – he becomes increasingly focused on violence and bloodshed. Important Note: The Bible doesn’t necessarily explain why Samson did this. It simply states that it happened. It is often interpreted as a consequence of his growing obsession with power and revenge. In short, this verse describes a truly shocking act – Samson using a skull to kill a thousand people. It highlights the potential darkness within him and sets the stage for further events in the story. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible verse? Discuss the context surrounding this verse (like its place in the larger narrative)? Explore the possible interpretations of Samson’s actions?

Definition: And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast away the jawbone out of his hand, and called that place Ramathlehi.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:17. It’s a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a significant event involving a figure who was speaking and then abruptly stopping. It tells us that this person, who was speaking, threw away a piece of something and named it “Ramathlehi.” Let’s unpack the details: “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking…” – This is saying that the figure was talking or delivering a message. The word "made an end of" suggests they were finished with their words. “…that he cast away the jawbone out of his hand…” - This is where it gets a little tricky. “Jawbone” isn't a common word, and it’s often interpreted as a symbol of something important or sacred. It could be a representation of a specific object – perhaps a statue, a ritual item, or even a leader’s authority. “…and called that place Ramathlehi.” - The figure then named this thing “Ramathlehi.” “Ramathlehi” is a name that doesn't appear in the Bible as a proper noun (a name of a person). It likely means "the place of [something important]." Possible Interpretations & Context: This verse is often used to point to a significant and potentially dangerous leader who was speaking blasphemously or causing trouble. The act of throwing away the jawbone could be symbolic of: Stopping a prophecy or warning: The figure might have been stopping a message that was critical, perhaps about God's judgment. Rebellion against God: It could represent a leader defying God’s authority and causing chaos. A disruption of divine order: The jawbone might symbolize something vital that was being disrupted. Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that this verse is historical – it's a description of a specific event within the ancient Near East. It doesn't give us a complete picture of the figure's motivations or beliefs. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in biblical history? Discuss some possible interpretations of the “jawbone” itself? Give you a little more context about the time period and culture surrounding this event?

Definition: And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 15:18. It's a really powerful and emotional piece of text! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Situation: “And he was sore athirst…” – This describes a man who is incredibly thirsty. The word “sore” emphasizes the intense feeling of thirst. Think of it like you feel really, really thirsty when you’re dehydrated. “…and called on the LORD…” – He's turning to God for help. He's recognizing that he needs divine intervention. “And said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised?” – This is where it gets really significant. He’s expressing a desperate plea: “Lord, please, give me help! You've given this incredible deliverance (meaning rescue or protection) to my servant. But now, because I’m dying from thirst, I will die in your hand.” Putting it All Together – What’s the Meaning? This verse tells us that a man is so thirsty he’s willing to risk his life entirely for God's help. He understands that this deliverance (the rescue) is coming into his hands. He’s essentially offering himself as a sacrifice, recognizing that he’s completely dependent on God's mercy and protection. Key Interpretations & Context: The Israelites in Exile: This passage comes from the time when the Israelites were exiled in Babylon. They were facing a desperate situation – they were starving and without any help from their own gods. God’s Protection: The verse is a demonstration of God's unwavering care for his people, even during times of hardship. It highlights God’s willingness to intervene when it matters most. A Test of Faith: It can be seen as a test of faith – a man willing to risk his life in favor of divine intervention. In short, this verse is a moving expression of desperation and unwavering trust in God. --- Do you want me to delve deeper into any specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain the historical context more fully? Discuss the symbolism behind the thirst? Compare it to other stories about divine intervention?