King James Version
What Does Judges 16:11 Mean?
“And he said unto her, If they bind me fast with new ropes that never were occupied , then shall I be weak, and be as another man. that never: Heb. wherewith work hath not been done”
Context
9
Now there were men lying in wait, abiding with her in the chamber. And she said unto him, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And he brake the withs, as a thread of tow is broken when it toucheth the fire. So his strength was not known. toucheth: Heb. smelleth
10
And Delilah said unto Samson, Behold, thou hast mocked me, and told me lies: now tell me, I pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound.
11
And he said unto her, If they bind me fast with new ropes that never were occupied , then shall I be weak, and be as another man. that never: Heb. wherewith work hath not been done
12
Delilah therefore took new ropes, and bound him therewith, and said unto him, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And there were liers in wait abiding in the chamber. And he brake them from off his arms like a thread.
13
And Delilah said unto Samson, Hitherto thou hast mocked me, and told me lies: tell me wherewith thou mightest be bound. And he said unto her, If thou weavest the seven locks of my head with the web.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **New ropes.**—As in Judges 15:13.
**That never were occupied.**—“Occupied” is an old word for *“*used.” (See Exodus 38:24, “All the gold that was occupied for the work;” Luke 19:13; Hebrews 13:9; “Like a new bright silver dish never *occupied “*—Ascham, *Schoolmaster.*) Here, again, Samson distantly touches on the consecration which is the secret of his strength.
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 16:11 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 16:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge