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Samson

Samson in the Bible — son of Manoah (JDG 13:24), who killed a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey (JDG 15:15). Samson belonged to the tribe of Dan. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.

Name meaning: his sun; his service; there the second time

Profile

Gender
male
Tribe
Dan
Scripture References
2 references
Known Names
1 name
Relationships
1 connection

Biography

A Nazirite judge of Israel who possessed extraordinary strength from the Lord. Samson judged Israel for twenty years during Philistine oppression. Despite his strength, he struggled with moral weakness, particularly regarding women. His relationship with Delilah led to the revelation of his strength's source, resulting in his capture. In his death, Samson killed more Philistines than during his life.

Significance

Samson demonstrates that God's calling and gifts don't depend on human perfection, yet sin has consequences. His final act shows that God can use even our failures for His purposes.

Key Events

Birth announced by angel(Judges 13:3-5)
Killed a lion with bare hands(Judges 14:5-6)
Killed 1000 Philistines with jawbone(Judges 15:15)
Betrayed by Delilah(Judges 16:18-21)
Death destroying Philistine temple(Judges 16:28-30)

Names & Labels (1)

Samsonproper name
Hebrew
שִׁמְשׁוֹן
Transliteration
shiməshon
Meaning
little one of Shemesh or strong
Greek
Σαμψων
Reference
JDG 13:24
Strong's
H8123

Family & Relationships (1)

son

Manoah(JDG 16:31)

Notes

judge of Israel

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Samson in the Bible?

Samson is described in the Bible as son of Manoah (JDG 13:24), who killed a thousand men with the jawbone of a donkey (JDG 15:15). Samson belonged to the tribe of Dan.

What does the name Samson mean?

The name Samson means “his sun; his service; there the second time” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.

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