Judges 14:7 Meaning and Interpretation

This verse states: "And he went down, and talked with the woman; and she pleased Samson well." This marks an important moment in the narrative of Samson, highlighting both human emotion and divine purpose in the unfolding events.

Contextual Overview

Judges 14 narrates the beginning of Samson’s story, where he seeks a Philistine woman as his wife, contrary to the expectations of his parents who stress the importance of marrying within their people. This decision sets the stage for conflict between the Israelites and the Philistines, emphasising the tension in Samson’s dual identity as a judge and a man caught in personal desires.

Thematic Connections

• Human Choice vs. Divine Will: Samson's choice to pursue a Philistine woman reflects the theme of human choices colliding with God’s sovereignty.
• The Role of Women: The woman’s role is pivotal, as her relationship with Samson becomes a means for God to work towards His greater plan against the Philistines.
• Conflict and Contrast: The scripture highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines, introducing the personal conflict within Samson's life.

Exegesis from Commentaries

Matthew Henry: Henry notes that Samson's search for a wife among the Philistines reveals his disregard for the covenant of Israel. He emphasizes that this was not merely a personal decision but one fraught with implications for Israel's faithfulness to God.

Albert Barnes: Barnes stresses that Samson saw the woman and was attracted to her, suggesting that physical beauty played a significant role in his decision. This attraction, however, led him away from the expected path of marrying an Israelite, which would have been in alignment with his vows and God's commandments.

Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the implications of this union. He suggests that Samson's relationship with Philistine women points to a larger theme of Israel's struggle against assimilation and the call to remain separate from foreign influences that lead them away from God.

Cross-References

Judges 14:7 is interconnected with various scripture passages that illuminate its deeper meanings:

• Genesis 24:1-4 - Abraham’s command to find a wife for Isaac from his own kin.
• Deuteronomy 7:3-4 - God’s command regarding intermarriage with other nations.
• Proverbs 4:23 - The admonition to guard one’s heart, as personal choices can lead one away from God’s will.
• 1 Corinthians 15:33 - The warning that bad company corrupts good morals.
• Joshua 23:12-13 - Joshua's warning against intermingling with foreign nations.
• 1 Peter 2:9 - The declaration of how God’s people are chosen to be separate and holy.
• Hosea 7:8-9 - A reflection on how Israel mingled with other nations contrary to God's will.

Application and Reflection

This verse invites readers to examine their choices and the potential consequences. Just as Samson's actions led him down a path of conflict and distraction, believers are encouraged to be mindful of their choices and to seek wisdom in their relationships and decisions.

Conclusion

The life of Samson is a narrative filled with lessons on the importance of alignment with God’s will over personal desires. Judges 14:7 illustrates this tension beautifully, reflecting broader themes of faithfulness, covenant, and the consequences of our personal decisions. Using tools for Bible cross-referencing, one can explore these themes further by tracing connections between verses and uncovering the rich tapestry of scripture that speaks to these timeless issues.