Judges 14:2 - He came up, and told his father and his mother, and said, “I have seen a woman in Timnah of the daughters of the Philistines. Now therefore get her for me as my wife.”

Generated Verse: Judges 14:2

What does "Judges 14:2" mean?


This verse from Judges 14:2 describes Samson's request to his parents regarding a woman he desires to marry. Let's break it down:

"He came up, and told his father and his mother...": This simply states that Samson approached his parents, indicating he was still under their authority and respecting their role in his life, at least initially.

"...and said, “I have seen a woman in Timnah of the daughters of the Philistines.": Samson informs his parents he has seen a woman in Timnah. Timnah was a Philistine city, indicating the woman was not an Israelite.

"Now therefore get her for me as my wife.”: This is the key part. Samson is demanding his parents arrange the marriage for him. It was customary in that culture for parents to arrange marriages for their children. He is essentially saying, "I want this woman, so you need to make it happen."

Key Implications and Context:

Intermarriage was forbidden: The most significant issue here is that Samson wants to marry a Philistine woman. God had commanded the Israelites not to intermarry with the surrounding nations (including the Philistines) because it could lead them to idolatry and abandoning their faith (e.g., Deuteronomy 7:3-4). The Philistines were enemies of Israel at this time.

Samson's Impulsiveness: This verse reveals Samson's impulsive nature. He sees a woman and immediately demands to marry her, without considering the potential consequences or God's law. He seems driven by physical attraction rather than spiritual considerations.

Parental Authority: While Samson informs his parents, he does so in a demanding manner, suggesting a disregard for their wisdom and the potential ramifications of his request. His parents would undoubtedly have concerns about this marriage.

Foreshadowing of Trouble: This event sets the stage for the tumultuous events that follow in Samson's life. His attraction to Philistine women will repeatedly lead him into conflict and ultimately contribute to his downfall. This verse is the beginning of a series of unwise choices by Samson.

In summary, Judges 14:2 is a pivotal verse that highlights Samson's disregard for God's law and his own parents' wisdom, driven by his immediate desires. It foretells the tragic consequences that will result from his impetuous actions.

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