Judges 14:16
And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my people, and hast not told it me. And he said unto her, Behold, I have not told it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell it thee?
Judges 14:16 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse from Judges 14:16 depicts a conversation between Samson and his Philistine wife, who is trying to persuade him to reveal the answer to a riddle he had posed to her people. She expresses her frustration by accusing Samson of not truly loving her because he had not shared the riddle with her. Samson responds by explaining that he had not even told his own parents the answer, so why should he tell her. This exchange reveals the tension in their relationship, as well as Samson's determination to keep this secret to himself. It also highlights the cultural divide between Samson and his wife, as she is part of a different group of people who are seen as enemies of the Israelites. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise in relationships, especially when there are cultural differences and secrets involved.
Theological Overview
In this passage from the book of Judges, we see Samson's wife pleading with him to reveal the answer to a riddle he had presented to her and her people. The interaction between Samson and his wife raises questions about trust, loyalty, and the intricacies of marriage. Through a theological lens, we can explore the themes of communication, secrets, and the dynamics of power within relationships. Samson's refusal to disclose the riddle to his wife highlights the complexity of their marriage and the challenges they face in understanding each other. The word "riddle" itself can symbolize the hidden truths and mysteries that are often present in human relationships, emphasizing the importance of openness and honesty in fostering trust and intimacy. By delving into the nuances of this verse, we can gain insights into the complexities of human emotions and the need for clear and honest communication in all relationships.
Judges 14:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my people, and hast not told it me. And he said unto her, Behold, I have not told it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell thee?
World English Bible
Samson’s wife wept before him, and said, “You just hate me, and don’t love me. You have told a riddle to the children of my people, and haven’t told it to me.” He said to her, “Behold, I haven’t told it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell you?”
Douay-Rheims
So she wept before Samson and complained, saying: Thou hatest me, and dost not love me: therefore thou wilt not expound to me the riddle, which thou hast proposed to the sons of my people. But he answered: I would not tell it to my father and mother: and how can I tell it to thee?
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Samsons wife wept before him, and said, Surely thou hatest mee and louest mee not: for thou hast put forth a riddle vnto the children of my people, and hast not told it mee. And hee sayd vnto her, Beholde, I haue not told it my father, nor my mother, and shall I tell it thee?