King James Version
What Does Judges 14:11 Mean?
“And it came to pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to be with him.”
Context
9
And he took thereof in his hands, and went on eating, and came to his father and mother, and he gave them, and they did eat: but he told not them that he had taken the honey out of the carcase of the lion.
10
So his father went down unto the woman: and Samson made there a feast; for so used the young men to do.
11
And it came to pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to be with him.
12
And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty change of garments: sheets: or, shirts
13
But if ye cannot declare it me, then shall ye give me thirty sheets and thirty change of garments. And they said unto him, Put forth thy riddle, that we may hear it. sheets: or, shirts
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **When they saw him.**—The reason why this clause is added is somewhat obscure, and this is perhaps the reason why the LXX. and Josephus, without any warrant, render it “when they were afraid of him, which would involve a change in the reading.
**They brought thirty companions.**—It was necessary to the splendour of the marriage feast that there should be these paranymphs (*shoshbenim, *or “children of the bride-chamber,” Matthew 9:15). The fact that Samson had brought none with him seems to prove that his marriage was highly unpopular among his own countrymen. *Thirty, *however, was a most unusual number.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Judges 14:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Judges 14:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge