Judges 16:7
And Samson said unto her, If they bind me with seven green withs that were never dried, then shall I be weak, and be as another man.
Judges 16:7 · King James Version
Meaning
Samson's statement in this verse comes from the biblical story of his encounter with Delilah, a woman who tricked him into revealing the source of his strength. Samson, a powerful judge chosen by God, had been granted incredible physical strength to protect the Israelites from their enemies. Delilah, seeking to betray him, repeatedly asked about the source of his strength. In this particular instance, Samson falsely tells her that his strength would leave him if he were tied up with seven fresh bowstrings. This deception ultimately leads to his capture when Delilah betrays him to the Philistines. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deceit and betrayal, as well as the consequences of trusting the wrong people with our vulnerabilities.
Theological Overview
Samson's statement in Judges 16:7 reveals his vulnerability to manipulation by others, particularly women. The use of the phrase "seven green withs that were never dried" is significant as it symbolizes the seven locks of Samson's hair, which were essential to his strength according to his Nazirite vow (Judges 13:5). The green withs being "never dried" signifies their strength and connection to Samson's source of power. By revealing this weakness to Delilah, Samson ultimately seals his fate as she later betrays him by cutting his hair, leading to the loss of his strength and subsequent capture by the Philistines. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of revealing one's vulnerabilities to those who may seek to exploit them, emphasizing the importance of guarding one's strengths and staying true to one's commitments.
Judges 16:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Samson said unto her, If they bind me with seven green withes that were never dried, then shall I become weak, and be as another man.
World English Bible
Samson said to her, “If they bind me with seven green cords that were never dried, then shall I become weak, and be as another man.”
Douay-Rheims
And Samson answered her: If I shall be bound with seven cords, made of sinews not yet dry, but still moist, I shall be weak like other men.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Samson then answered vnto her, If they binde mee with seuen greene cordes, that were neuer dryed, then shall I bee weake, and be as an other man.