Definition: Then went Samson to Gaza, and saw there an harlot, and went in unto her.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:1. It’s a really interesting little snippet of a larger story! Here's the simple explanation: Basically, Samson was traveling to Gaza when he found a woman (an “harlot”) and went inside her house. Let's unpack that a bit: “Judges 16”: This refers to a specific period in biblical history. It’s about a time of trouble and conflict. “Went Samson to Gaza”: Samson was a man who was known for his incredible strength, but he was also a bit of a troublemaker. He was traveling to a place called Gaza. “Saw there an harlot”: "Harlot" is a word that means a woman who is engaged in immoral or lustful behavior. This woman was found in Gaza. “Went in unto her”: Samson went inside her house – meaning he entered her dwelling. So, what's the big idea? This verse sets up a situation of conflict and trouble. It suggests that Samson’s actions (his strength and restlessness) were causing problems for people. The story continues with him becoming involved in a violent struggle and ultimately leading to significant destruction. Important Note: This is just one small part of the larger story of Samson and his rebellion against God. It's important to remember that this verse doesn’t tell us why he was doing it, but rather that something was happening that led to this situation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail? Talk about what this story teaches us about human nature or conflict?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Judges 16:10. It’s a really dramatic and unsettling verse! Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: Samson is Being Mocked: The story of Samson revolves around him being repeatedly mocked by people for his strength and rebellious nature. Delilah Intervenes: Delilah, a woman who was very close to Samson, witnesses these mocking attacks. She's incredibly upset and decides to confront him. Delilah’s Question: She asks Samson directly, “Behold, you have mocked me and told lies! Now, tell me wherewith you might be bound.” What it Means – Simple Breakdown: “You have mocked me…” : This means he's been making false statements and challenging her. “…and told me lies” : He’s been deliberately deceiving and misleading her. “Now, tell me, I pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound?” : This is a very forceful plea. She wants to know how he can be restrained or punished for his actions. She's demanding a clear explanation of his wrongdoing. Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse highlights a pivotal moment in the story – Samson’s betrayal and disobedience. Delilah’s response is a challenge and a demand for justice. It sets the stage for the events that follow, where God will ultimately deal with Samson's behavior and bring about his downfall. It’s a powerful statement of defiance and a call for accountability. It suggests that Samson’s actions have consequences, and there needs to be a way to stop him from causing further trouble. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context of this verse in more detail? Discuss what kind of 'bound' Delilah is referring to (e.g., physical restraints)? Explore why this verse is considered significant within the Bible?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:11. It's a really powerful statement about resilience and the power of God. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where someone is trapped and severely hindered – almost powerless – because they are bound by new, useless ropes that simply don’t exist . The speaker is saying he's so vulnerable and helpless that he becomes weak and unable to fight. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he said unto her…” : This establishes who’s speaking – a powerful figure (likely a judge or leader). He's addressing a woman. “…If they bind me fast with new ropes that never were occupied…” : This is the key part. "New ropes" symbolize new challenges, obstacles, or situations. “Never occupied” emphasizes that these ropes are completely absent – there’s nothing for them to use. It suggests a situation where there's no support or assistance available. “…then shall I be weak, and be as another man.” : This is the consequence of being trapped in this situation. “Weak” means he becomes vulnerable and unable to fight or defend himself. "As another man" – it’s a metaphor for becoming diminished, less capable, and possibly even powerless compared to someone else. What does this mean practically? This verse speaks to the idea of being overwhelmed by adversity. It's about recognizing that sometimes we can be completely vulnerable when faced with difficult circumstances. It encourages us to: Be resilient: Don’t give up easily. Seek help: Don’t try to fight alone – there’s strength in asking for assistance. Focus on what you can control: Even when things seem hopeless, remember your strengths and capabilities. In short, it's a reminder that even when we feel trapped, we still have the potential to be strong despite being hindered. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (e.g., how it relates to the larger story of the book)?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together. It’s a really dramatic and surprising story! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a terrifying encounter between Delilah, a skilled woman from Philistia, and Samson, a talented musician and acrobat. It’s about a dangerous situation where Samson was being attacked by enemies. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “Judges 16:12” : This tells us we're talking about a specific part of the Old Testament, specifically from the Book of Judges. It’s an ancient story written down in the Bible. “Delilah therefore took new ropes…” : Delilah was very clever and resourceful. She didn't just stand by and let things happen. She actively took on a challenge. “…and bound him therewith…” : She wrapped Samson up in new ropes, essentially trapping him. This shows she was determined to stop him. “And said unto him, The Philistines [be] upon thee…” : Delilah told Samson that the Philistines (a group of people living nearby) were watching him. They were threatening him. “[There were] liers in wait abiding in the chamber.” : This is a crucial part. She warned him there were other people lurking in his room – people who were trying to deceive him and trick him into doing something dangerous. “And he brake them from off his arms like a thread.” : This is the most shocking part! Delilah, using her skill, quickly and decisively broke Samson’s ropes. She didn't just let him go; she broke him. She effectively silenced him with a single action. It’s described as “breaking him from off his arms like a thread.” What does it all mean? This story is about a moment of intense danger and betrayal. Samson was being targeted by enemies, and Delilah used her skill to protect herself and potentially stop him from doing something incredibly risky. It’s a reminder that even the most talented people can be vulnerable and need protection. Important Note: The word "liars" is a tricky one. It refers to people who were trying to deceive Samson, not necessarily actual liars himself . They were acting as accomplices for the Philistines. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of Delilah's actions? Talk about the symbolism behind the "breaking of ropes"?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:13. It’s a really strange and dramatic passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Story: This verse comes after Samson has been repeatedly beating and torturing the man, Delilah, to the point of exhaustion. She's essentially trying to break his spirit. She challenges him to do something incredibly difficult – weave seven locks of his hair with a web. What it’s saying: Delilah’s Challenge: Delilah is very angry and upset with Samson. She’s calling him a liar and mocking him. The Task: She gives him a ridiculously complex and impossible task – to create seven locks of his hair with a web. It's beyond anything he could possibly do. Putting it into context (a little background): This is part of a larger story in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. Samson was a mighty hero, but he became consumed by pride and ambition. He started to challenge God and become a threat to Israel. This verse represents a turning point - he’s now actively trying to provoke a terrible punishment against him. Overall Meaning: The verse is a shocking and unsettling moment in the story. It highlights: The power of Delilah's anger: She's not just challenging Samson; she’s deliberately trying to inflict immense suffering on him. The dangers of pride: It shows how ambition and arrogance can lead to terrible consequences. A moment of divine judgment: It sets the stage for a significant punishment that will befall Samson, potentially leading to his death. Important Note: This is a very difficult passage to understand because it’s written in a way that's intended to be unsettling and dramatic. It’s not meant to be easily interpreted literally. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of this further? Give you more context about the story of Samson? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader sense (like the temptation of power)?

Definition: And she fastened [it] with the pin, and said unto him, The Philistines [be] upon thee, Samson. And he awaked out of his sleep, and went away with the pin of the beam, and with the web.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:14. It’s a really strange and dramatic passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Samson is in trouble. The verse describes Samson, a famous strongman, being captured by the Philistines. He’s been held captive for a long time. They try to bind him. The Philistines are trying to trap and hold him. They use a pin (a small metal device) and a piece of wood (the “web”) to restrain him. She pins it on him. A woman, likely a member of the Philistine tribe, attaches this pin and web to Samson’s arm. She tells him something awful. She says, "The Philistines are upon you!" – meaning they're going to attack him. Putting it Together - The Meaning: This verse paints a picture of a terrifying situation where Samson is being deliberately made an easy target. The woman is essentially marking him for death with a visible sign that he’s in danger. It’s a brutal act of intimidation and possibly a warning. Important Note: This passage is really unusual. It's not part of the standard narrative of Samson’s story. It’s more of an isolated event that serves to highlight the severity of his predicament. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in biblical history? Give you some context about Samson and the story surrounding him?

Definition: And she said unto him, How canst thou say, I love thee, when thine heart [is] not with me? thou hast mocked me these three times, and hast not told me wherein thy great strength [lieth].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse. It’s a really powerful and important passage from the Book of Judges. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: The Accused: A woman named “She” is being accused of deliberately provoking and mocking the judges (leaders) of Israel. The Mockery: She has repeatedly mocked the judges, telling them where her strength lies – meaning she’s been defiant and challenging their authority. She's essentially saying, "I'm not loving you; I'm being disrespectful." Three Times: This isn’t a one-time thing. She’s been doing this three times! What it Means - A Bit More Deeply: This verse is about betrayal and disrespect. It’s a harsh rebuke of someone who intentionally causes harm and defiance. It's a clear message that the woman is not being honest or trustworthy. "How canst thou say, I love thee?" – This is the core question. The verse implies she's suggesting she can love someone, but her actions prove otherwise. It’s like saying “I can love you” when you’re secretly hating her. “When thine heart [is] not with me?” – This is a crucial part. It means her heart isn’t aligned with the judgment and the actions of the judges. Her thoughts and feelings aren't supportive of the situation. The Significance: This verse is often seen as a warning to the Israelites – and it’s still relevant today! It highlights that trust and loyalty are essential. It tells us that if someone isn't loving and supporting you, it means something is seriously wrong. In short, this verse emphasizes that disrespect and defiance can be a serious problem and that honesty and faithfulness are vital for a healthy relationship. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Give you a more detailed explanation of the context it's in? Discuss the meaning of the word "heart" in this verse?

Definition: And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and urged him, [so] that his soul was vexed unto death;

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Judges 16:16. It’s a really powerful and unsettling passage about a man who was relentlessly tormenting someone. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse describes a situation where a man named “she” was constantly pushing on someone – likely a leader or authority figure – with her words, causing them significant distress and even urging them to die. Let's unpack the details: “Judges 16:16 And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words…” This sets up a pattern of persistent negativity. It’s not just a one-time thing; this man was doing it every day . The word "pressed" suggests he was actively trying to put someone in a difficult or painful position. "...and urged him, [so] that his soul was vexed unto death.” This is the key part. “Vexed” means to cause distress, frustration, or worry. “To death” is a very strong and dramatic statement – it implies he was causing someone significant suffering and even potentially ending their life. What does this mean on a deeper level? This verse speaks to several important themes: The Power of Words: It highlights how words can have a devastating impact, especially when they are used maliciously or persistently. It shows that what we say can have a profound effect on someone's well-being and even their life. Moral Responsibility: The verse underscores the importance of being mindful of our words and actions. It’s not enough to simply say something nice; it must be done with kindness and respect. The Danger of Persistent Criticism: It warns against allowing someone to constantly criticize or torment you. This is a call for protecting your mental and emotional health. In short, this verse describes a man who was deliberately trying to cause immense pain to another person through his words, and the result was a state of great distress that even led to potential death. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Judges? Explore what this verse might teach us about healthy communication or conflict resolution?

Definition: That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a rasor upon mine head; for I [have been] a Nazarite unto God from my mother’s womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any [other] man.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat dramatic verse from the Book of Judges! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes after a very violent and chaotic period in Israel’s history. A woman named “Rasor” (likely a name meaning "stone" or "rock") has been attacking and harming King Saul, the king of Israel. She's been deliberately trying to harm him with stones and other things. What it says: “That he told her all his heart…” – This is key. The Nazarite (a special kind of protector) was deeply distressed and heartbroken by this constant abuse. He confessed everything in his soul to her. “…and said unto her, There hath not come a rasor upon mine head;” - This means he wasn't afraid or threatened. He didn’t feel like he was going to be harmed. “For I [have been] a Nazarite unto God from my mother’s womb: ” – This is the core of the story. The Nazarite was given this special protection by his mother – it was a sacred vow and duty passed down through generations. It meant he was ordained to be protected by God. “If I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any [other] man.” – This is the scary part! If he shaved his head (as punishment for his actions), it would mean he would lose his power, his ability to lead and protect. He’d become vulnerable and less capable. In simpler terms: The Nazarite was deeply hurt by this woman's attacks and vowed to be protected by God from harm. He felt like he was being deliberately targeted and was worried about losing his strength and ability to do his duty. What it’s trying to say: This verse highlights a serious situation of betrayal, abuse, and the importance of divine protection. It speaks to a deep sense of vulnerability and the need for God's intervention to safeguard those who are entrusted with responsibility. It emphasizes that being protected by God is vital for one’s purpose and ability to fulfill their role. Important Note: The word "Nazarite" isn't really about a specific royal title, but rather a lifelong vow of protection and obedience to God. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this passage? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of the Nazarite tradition in Jewish history? Discuss the context of the story within the larger narrative of Israel’s struggles?

Definition: And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up this once, for he hath shewed me all his heart. Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought money in their hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Judges 16:18. It’s a really interesting story about deception and a leader trying to hide his secret. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: Delilah is being tricked: A woman named Delilah was being led astray by a man named “he” who was speaking to her in riddles. She was essentially being manipulated into telling him everything about her heart – her thoughts, feelings, and secrets. He’s revealing his secret: The man then told her everything he thought she wanted to know. He went through all her vulnerabilities, fears, and desires. She asks for help: Delilah, feeling trapped and vulnerable, asked the leaders of the Philistines – a group of people who lived in the area – to come up and bring her something. She wanted them to witness this whole process. The Philistine response: The Philistine leaders came up and brought money . They were essentially offering her a reward for revealing her secrets. What it means in simpler terms: This verse describes a situation where someone is being deliberately deceived by someone else. It’s about a leader who tries to hide their true thoughts and feelings, and then uses that deception to manipulate others. Key takeaway: It's a story of betrayal and the consequences of hiding one’s heart. It highlights the importance of honesty and trust. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any part of this? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "he" is referring to? Discuss the context of this story in the Bible?