Judges 16:6
And Delilah said to Samson, Tell me, I pray thee, wherein thy great strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee.
Judges 16:6 · King James Version
Meaning
Delilah's question to Samson in this verse shows her ulterior motive to betray him by revealing the source of his great strength. Samson had been blessed with incredible physical power by God to deliver the Israelites from their enemies, but his downfall came when he allowed himself to be enticed by Delilah's deceitful charm. By asking Samson to reveal the secret of his strength, Delilah was plotting to hand him over to the Philistines who sought to defeat him. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of trusting the wrong people and being swayed by temptation. It highlights the importance of being discerning in relationships and guarding one's vulnerabilities. Samson's subsequent actions and the tragic outcome that follows serve as a warning about the danger of compromising one's integrity and giving in to deceitful tactics.
Theological Overview
Delilah's inquiry to Samson about the source of his strength in Judges 16:6 has been a subject of much theological interpretation and word studies. Some scholars have viewed Delilah's questioning as symbolic of the temptations and weaknesses that can come between individuals and their faith in God. Others have analyzed the Hebrew words used in the verse to understand the nuances of Samson's response and Delilah's intentions. The word "strength" can also be translated as "vigour" or "force," leading to discussions about the nature of Samson's physical and spiritual abilities. Additionally, the phrase "wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee" has sparked debates about the nature of weakness and vulnerability, as well as the ways in which individuals can be manipulated or led astray. Overall, this verse offers a rich opportunity for reflection on the complexities of human nature and the challenges of remaining steadfast in one's beliefs.
Judges 16:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Delilah said to Samson, Tell me, I pray thee, wherein thy great strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest be bound to afflict thee.
World English Bible
Delilah said to Samson, “Please tell me where your great strength lies, and what you might be bound to afflict you.”
Douay-Rheims
And Dalila said to Samson: Tell me, I beseech thee, wherein thy greatest strength lieth, and what it is, wherewith if thou wert bound, thou couldst not break loose.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Delilah saide to Samson, Tell mee, I pray thee, wherein thy great strength lieth, and wherewith thou mightest bee bound, to doe thee hurt.