Judges 16:2
And it was told the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him.
Judges 16:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Judges tells the story of Samson, a powerful Israelite judge who was betrayed by the people of Gaza. Samson's presence in the city was reported to the Gazites, who then plotted to capture and kill him. They surrounded him at the city gate, waiting for the cover of darkness to execute their plan. The Gazites demonstrated their cunning by remaining quiet throughout the night, setting their sights on a morning attack. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of betrayal and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of deception. It highlights the treacherous nature of mankind and the need to always be on guard against those who seek to harm us. The story of Samson and the Gazites is a cautionary tale that warns us of the consequences of trusting those who may have ulterior motives.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the presence of enemies seeking to destroy God's chosen servant, Samson. The Gazites' plan to ambush him at the city gate while he was vulnerable reveals the constant spiritual warfare believers face in their lives. The word "Gazites" in this context symbolizes the forces of darkness and opposition to God's purpose. The fact that they waited all night in silence further emphasizes the deceptive and cunning nature of the enemy, seeking to catch Samson off guard. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to be vigilant and prepared for spiritual attacks, even in moments of rest and vulnerability. It also showcases how God's anointed are targeted by the enemy, but through divine intervention and protection, Samson ultimately overcame this threat.
Judges 16:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
[ And it was told] the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, [Let be] till morning light, then we will kill him.
World English Bible
The Gazites were told, “Samson is here!” They surrounded him, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, “Wait until morning light, then we will kill him.”
Douay-Rheims
And when the Philistines had heard this, and it was noised about among them, that Samson was come into the city, they surrounded him, setting guards at the gate of the city, and watching there all the night in silence, that in the morning they might kill him as he went out.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And it was tolde to the Azzahites, Samson is come hither. And they went about, and laied wayte for him all night in the gate of the citie, and were quiet all the nyght, saying, Abide till the morning earely, and we shall kill him.