Definition: [And it was told] the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed [him] in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16. It’s a really dramatic and unsettling story about Samson and his downfall. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Samson is a Powerful Man: Before this verse, we know Samson was a very skilled musician and acrobat in Israel. He was incredibly strong and talented. The Gazites Plot to Kill Him: A group of people called the Gazites (meaning "the ones who are close") become suspicious of Samson. They’re convinced he’s traveling somewhere and planning to return. They start to actively look for him, circling his home and waiting all night. They Wait Quietly: They don't attack him aggressively; they simply wait patiently in the gate of the city – a place where people would be relatively safe. They’re deliberately quiet, almost as if they’re praying for an opportunity. They Plan to Kill Him in the Morning: The Gazites believe that when the sun rises, they will kill Samson. They've made a plan to do this. What it Means – A Simplified Explanation: This passage describes a period of intense danger and planning orchestrated by the Gazites. They are essentially setting up a trap for Samson. It’s a story about fear, suspicion, and the dangers that can arise from envy or distrust. They're trying to prevent Samson from returning home, but their actions are driven by a desire to harm him. Key Themes & Implications: Envy and Suspicion: The Gazites' motivation is rooted in envy – they believe Samson is traveling elsewhere. This highlights the importance of looking out for your neighbors and being wary of those who seem to be plotting against you. The Danger of Being Watchful: This story shows that vigilance can be a dangerous thing, especially when it leads to suspicion and potentially deadly plans. It’s important to note: This passage is written in a very dramatic and somewhat unsettling way. It's not meant to be a straightforward historical account but rather a symbolic representation of a challenging situation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss why this passage might be significant in biblical history?

Definition: And she said, The Philistines [be] upon thee, Samson. And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, I will go out as at other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that the LORD was departed from him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:20 together. It's a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage! Here’s what it essentially means, explained in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Samson is in trouble: The verse tells us that Samson was being attacked by the Philistines. He was in a dangerous situation. He's asleep: Samson was deeply asleep when the Philistines attacked him. This suggests he’s vulnerable and unprepared. He wakes up and says something strange: As he awakens, he starts to talk about going out and shaking himself – like he’s preparing for a different situation. He doesn't realize anything has changed: The most striking part is that he doesn’t seem to notice that God (the Lord) is gone! He’s completely focused on the act of shaking himself. Putting it all together – Simple Explanation: Samson was in a state of confusion and perhaps even fear because he was being attacked. He was so preoccupied with his own actions that he didn't realize that God had left him. It's like when you’re deeply engrossed in something and miss a crucial warning or change happening around you. Possible Interpretations (It's not always straightforward): A Moment of Doubt: This verse could be interpreted as a moment of doubt within Samson – a feeling that he might not be strong enough, or that things aren’t going right. Divine Intervention: It also hints at a potential divine intervention, where God is aware and watching over Samson despite his struggles. Important Note: The Bible often uses figurative language to describe events. This verse is rich with symbolism and isn't meant to be taken literally. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore a specific aspect of the verse (like its historical context)? Discuss how this passage relates to other biblical stories or themes?

Definition: But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:21. It's a really strange and dramatic story about a powerful Philistine leader. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: A Powerful Leader: The verse tells us that a Philistine leader, named “the man who was called Sela ,” was incredibly strong and feared. He was the leader of a large group of people. Disrespect & Rebellion: He was disrespecting God and challenging his authority. He was leading his people in ways that weren’t right according to the laws of the Israelites (the people God had given to Moses). The Cruel Treatment: The Philistines, feeling threatened by this leader's defiance, decided to treat him very harshly. They took him away, bound him with brass fetters (which are kind of heavy and shiny), and put him in a prison house. What Happened Next? Grinding in the Prison: He was then forced to grind – to work hard – inside this prison house. This is a very harsh punishment – it meant he had to do a lot of labor. In essence, this verse describes a brutal and humiliating experience for a Philistine leader who was punished severely for his rebellious actions. It’s a stark example of how power can lead to cruelty and injustice. Important Note: It’s important to remember that this story is part of a larger narrative about the Israelites facing a powerful enemy. The story highlights the dangers of disobedience and the need to respect God's laws. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this story happened in the Bible? Connect it to a specific biblical event or theme? Give you some context about the time period when this story occurred?

Definition: Howbeit the hair of his head began to grow again after he was shaven.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:22 together. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious passage! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very unusual situation – a king who had shaved his head. But, after the shaving, his hair started to grow back. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 16” : This refers to a specific period of history in ancient Israel, during a time of great turmoil and conflict. “Howbeit” : This is a word that means “even though” or “despite.” It’s used here to introduce a contrast. “The hair of his head began to grow again” : This literally means the hairs on his head started to grow back, just like they did before he shaved them. So, what does it mean practically? This is a very symbolic story. It suggests that: He was vulnerable: The fact that his hair grew back after being shaved meant he was exposed and potentially vulnerable. It showed a weakness. He needed to be protected: The verse implies that this vulnerability needed to be addressed, perhaps through a change or solution. Possible Interpretations & Context (this is where it gets interesting): The story of Samson and Delilah is the most common explanation for this verse. Samson was a powerful judge who shaved his head as a sign of humility and submission to God. However, Delilah, a sorceress, tricked him into revealing his secret strength. This act of trickery caused his hair to grow back. In essence, the verse is about: A moment of weakness or vulnerability. The need for protection and restoration. Important Note: This is an ancient text, and its exact meaning has been debated over the years. It's a powerful image that encourages us to be mindful of our vulnerabilities and to seek ways to protect ourselves. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help you with? For example, would you like me to: Explain the Samson/Delilah story in more detail? Discuss different interpretations of the verse?

Definition: Then the lords of the Philistines gathered them together for to offer a great sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice: for they said, Our god hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:23. It’s a really dramatic and unsettling verse in the Bible. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samson is in Trouble: The story of Samson is about a man who was incredibly strong, but he was also tricked into being cursed by his jealous father, Jealousus. This curse made him unable to break any ropes or vines. Philistines Come to Offer a Sacrifice: A group of Philistine people – they were a seafaring tribe living in the region – came to offer a huge sacrifice to their god, Dagon. They Want to Celebrate Victory: They weren’t just offering a sacrifice; they were celebrating their victory over Samson! They thought they had won and were happy about it. They Said Something Very Bad: The Philistines then announced that they had delivered Samson into their hands. Putting it All Together - What's Happening? This verse shows a very dark moment in Israel’s history. It suggests: 1. A Betrayal: The Philistines are betraying God and the Israelites. They are actively seeking to harm us. 2. The Curse of Samson: Their actions were motivated by jealousy and a desire to punish Samson, who they considered an enemy. Their attempt to offer a sacrifice to Dagon is a clear sign of their wicked intentions. Overall Meaning – A Warning & a Turning Point: This verse is a warning about the dangers of pride and the possibility of betrayal. It's a moment where the Philistines show that they are not truly righteous or faithful. It’s a pivotal point where God begins to intervene and bring about consequences for their actions, setting the stage for further events in the Bible. Important Note: The text itself is quite brutal. It describes a very violent act of betrayal. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of this verse in more detail? Discuss the context of this story within the larger history of Israel? Connect it to other Bible stories or themes?

Definition: And when the people saw him, they praised their god: for they said, Our god hath delivered into our hands our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which slew many of us.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:24. It’s a really powerful and unsettling passage about a devastating event. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: A Huge Battle: The verse tells us about a massive battle that occurred after the Israelites were defeated by the Philistines. Seeing the Enemy Delivered: During this battle, the Philistines successfully captured and delivered a large group of Israelite soldiers – essentially their entire army – into the hands of God. The People’s Reaction: The people, witnessing this, were incredibly upset. They started praising their god, believing that God had saved them from their enemies. What it Means - A Deeper Look: This verse is a bit dramatic and suggests a very significant shift in the Israelites' belief system. Here's what it implies: Loss of Faith: The people’s praise to their god was because they believed God had delivered them from their enemy. It wasn’t about acknowledging God's power; it was about believing He intervened in a way that saved them. Disbelief & Shame: The fact that they praised their god so intensely, especially after such a devastating loss, is deeply unsettling. It suggests a profound shift in the Israelites’ understanding of their God and their situation. They were essentially admitting to a failure – they hadn't been saved! Important Context (Briefly): This verse comes from a time when Israel was facing intense pressure from the Philistines. It highlights a period where faith was shaken, and the people seemed to be prioritizing their own comfort and security over God’s promises. In short, this verse is a story about a moment of profound disbelief and a shift in how the Israelites perceived their god – a time when they lost faith in the very source of their protection. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific aspect of this verse (like the symbolism it might have had)? Give you some historical context about what was happening at the time?

Definition: And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made them sport: and they set him between the pillars.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:25. It’s a really strange and unsettling story about a man imprisoned long ago. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samson is in Prison: The verse tells us that Samson was imprisoned for a very long time, likely for a serious crime. They Tried to Make Him Sport: A group of people, perhaps jealous or trying to cause trouble, decided to bring him out of prison and make him do something silly. They wanted to provoke him! They Called Him Out: They called him out into the streets. He Made Them Laugh: Samson then started acting in a way that was incredibly disruptive and chaotic – he caused a lot of trouble and mayhem. He Was Set Between Pillars: This is the most bizarre part. They placed him between two pillars, which suggests he was being used as a focal point for their mischief. What it’s saying (in a simplified way): It's essentially a story about a man who was deliberately set up to cause trouble and disruption. The people were trying to get him to do something foolish and dangerous, and they acted on that idea. It highlights the potential for someone to be used as a tool of chaos. Important Note: This is a very dramatic and unsettling passage in the Bible. It’s often interpreted as a warning against excessive pride and ambition – Samson's downfall was partly due to his desire to prove himself, and that desire led to him causing problems for others. Do you want me to delve deeper into any aspect of this story? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story in the Old Testament The symbolism behind the "pillars" What this passage suggests about human nature

Definition: And Samson said unto the lad that held him by the hand, Suffer me that I may feel the pillars whereupon the house standeth, that I may lean upon them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:26. It's a really interesting and somewhat mysterious verse! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Samson was being held by a boy, and he was asking for permission to lean on the pillars of the house. He’s essentially expressing a desire to be comfortable and stable while he’s stuck. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Samson said unto the lad that held him by the hand…” – This establishes the context: Samson was in a difficult situation, being held captive. He's addressing someone directly. “…Suffer me that I may feel the pillars whereupon the house standeth…” – This is the key part. “The pillars upon which the house stands” refers to the columns or supports of the building. Samson wants to feel these supports, to be physically connected to them. He’s seeking a sense of stability and grounding. “…that I may lean upon them.” – He wants to sit down and rest on those pillars. What's it suggesting? This verse is often interpreted as a moment of profound vulnerability and despair for Samson. It suggests he was in such a desperate and vulnerable position that he desperately craved comfort and security, even at the cost of his own safety. Important Note: The exact meaning and significance of this passage have been debated by scholars for centuries. It's a complex verse with layers of symbolism! --- In short, it’s about Samson’s desperate need for stability and connection to something solid when he was facing immense hardship. Do you want me to: Explain the context of this passage in more detail? Discuss possible interpretations of its meaning? Or perhaps delve into a related story or biblical theme?

Definition: Now the house was full of men and women; and all the lords of the Philistines [were] there; and [there were] upon the roof about three thousand men and women, that beheld while Samson made sport.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:27. It’s a really interesting story about a moment of intense drama! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A Gathering: “Now the house was full…” This tells us there was a large group gathered – likely people from various tribes, including those who were part of the Philistine tribe. Powerful People Present: "And all the lords of the Philistines [were] there…" This is key. It means powerful leaders and figures from the Philistine tribe were present. We know this because they’re called “lords,” which suggests a significant role or authority. A Big Crowd: “…and [there were] upon the roof about three thousand men and women…” This describes a massive crowd – likely around 3,000 people. They were all watching what was happening. Watching Samson’s Play: “that beheld while Samson made sport.” This is the most important part. Samson was playfully wrestling with a rope. The word "sport" suggests he was having fun and enjoying himself! Putting it Together – What's the Big Picture? This verse paints a picture of a serious situation where powerful people were observing something exciting - Samson’s antics. It’s hinting at a potential threat, maybe even a struggle for power, because this large crowd is witnessing what could be a significant event. Important Note: The Bible doesn't give us why they were watching. It just tells us the scene was happening. It’s a moment of intense observation that sets up events later in the book of Judges. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse further? For example, would you like me to: Explain what “lords” might mean in this context? Discuss the significance of Samson’s actions?

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. --- 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?