Judges 16:28
And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.
Judges 16:28 · King James Version
Meaning
Samson, a judge of Israel, called out to the Lord in a moment of desperation. Having been captured by the Philistines and blinded, he humbly sought God's help in his time of need. Despite his past mistakes and disobedience to God's commands, Samson still turned to the Lord for strength and vengeance against his enemies. His plea for God to remember him and grant him strength for one last act of retaliation shows his determination and faith in God's power. Samson's prayer teaches us that even in our weakest moments, we can always turn to God for help and seek His intervention in our lives. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and assistance in all circumstances, no matter how dire they may seem.
Theological Overview
Samson's plea to the Lord in this verse demonstrates his deep reliance on God's strength and divine intervention. Through his prayer, he acknowledges God's sovereignty and seeks His help in his time of need. The use of the phrase "remember me" suggests that Samson is calling on God to not forget his past dedication and to act on his behalf once more. Samson's request for strength also reflects his understanding that true power comes from God alone. By emphasizing that he only needs help "this once," Samson acknowledges his own limitations and humbly asks for assistance in achieving his goal of avenging the Philistines. This verse highlights the importance of turning to God in times of trouble and seeking His guidance and strength to overcome challenges. It serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and the faithfulness of God to those who call upon Him.
Judges 16:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Samson called unto Jehovah, and said, O Lord Jehovah, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.
World English Bible
Samson called to Yahweh, and said, “Lord Yahweh, remember me, please, and strengthen me, please, only this once, God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.”
Douay-Rheims
But he called upon the Lord, saying: O Lord God remember me, and restore to me now my former strength, O my God, that I may revenge myself on my enemies, and for the loss of my two eyes I may take one revenge.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Samson called vnto the Lord, and sayde, O Lord God, I pray thee, thinke vpon me: O God, I beseech thee, strengthen me at this time onely, that I may be at once auenged of the Philistims for my two eyes.