Verse Summary

The verse highlights a critical moment in the story of Samson and Delilah, illustrating the theme of betrayal and the consequences of misplaced trust. Samson, the nazirite known for his immense strength, reveals a significant weakness as he falls asleep in the lap of Delilah, who was working with the Philistines to capture him.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the folly of Samson in trusting Delilah despite her persistent questioning about the source of his strength. He illustrates how betrayal often lurks behind seductive appearances, warning the reader about the dangers of allowing oneself to be entrapped by deceit.

• Albert Barnes:

  Albert Barnes comments on the physical act of Samson losing his strength. He explores the symbolism of the hair as a representation of Samson's covenant with God, suggesting that the cutting of his hair signifies a severing of this divine relationship. Barnes expresses how this act aligns with the larger narrative of Israel’s sin against God.

• Adam Clarke:

  Adam Clarke focuses on the broader implications of this story, particularly the character of Delilah, portraying her as a cunning figure who embodies treachery. Clarke goes further to discuss the historical context of the Philistine oppression and how Samson's downfall serves as a commentary on Israel's spiritual state during this period.

Lessons and Applications

This verse offers rich insights into several key themes relevant to modern readers:

• Betrayal and Trust: The narrative warns of the dangers of placing trust in those who may have ulterior motives.
• Consequences of Sin: Samson's story teaches us about the repercussions of straying from God’s commandments, as he became vulnerable to his enemies due to his own choices.
• The Importance of Vigilance: Spiritual vigilance is paramount; one must remain alert to temptation, much like Samson should have been aware of Delilah's ploys.

Cross References

For a deeper understanding of Judges 16:14 and its themes, consider these related Bible verses:

• Judges 16:17: Samson reveals the truth about his strength.
• 1 Corinthians 15:33: A warning on bad company corrupting good morals, paralleling Samson's story.
• Proverbs 4:23: The call to guard one’s heart, relevant to the vulnerability exhibited by Samson.

Conclusion

Judges 16:14 is an evocative verse that illustrates vital themes, including the risks associated with betrayal and the dire consequences of forsaking divine guidance. By applying insights from public domain commentaries, readers can appreciate the richness of Scripture analysis and the importance of understanding context, character motivations, and the lessons that resonate through the ages. This narrative reminds us to seek a deeper understanding of Bible verses and asks us to consider how these ancient lessons can be applied to our daily lives.