Judges 15:13 - They spoke to him, saying, “No; but we will bind you securely, and deliver you into their hands; but surely we will not kill you.” They bound him with two new ropes, and brought him up from the rock.

Generated Verse: Judges 15:13

What does "Judges 15:13" mean?


This verse is part of the story of Samson in the Book of Judges. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

Context: Samson, a judge of Israel known for his incredible strength, has been captured by the Philistines. The men of Judah, fearing the Philistines, have come to bind Samson and hand him over to them.

"They spoke to him, saying, 'No; but we will bind you securely, and deliver you into their hands; but surely we will not kill you.'" The men of Judah are trying to reassure Samson that they aren't acting maliciously. They promise him that they won't kill him themselves. However, they are willing to hand him over to his enemies, the Philistines. They are prioritizing their own safety and peace with the Philistines over loyalty to a fellow Israelite and judge. Their promise not to kill him themselves is a weak consolation, as they are fully aware that the Philistines intend to harm him.

"They bound him with two new ropes, and brought him up from the rock." This shows the thoroughness of their actions. They use new ropes to ensure that he cannot easily break free. They bind him securely. The phrase "brought him up from the rock" suggests that he was hiding or had taken refuge on a rocky outcrop, perhaps trying to avoid capture. This highlights the circumstances in which he was captured.

In summary, the verse depicts a moment of betrayal and desperation. The men of Judah, motivated by fear and self-preservation, are willing to sacrifice Samson to the Philistines. They offer a hollow promise of safety while actively delivering him into the hands of his enemies. This highlights the moral weakness of the Israelites at this time, a recurring theme in the Book of Judges.