The Death of Samson and the Destruction of the Temple

Context & Setting

  • Main Biblical Reference: Judges 16:21–31
  • Historical Period: The period of the Judges (before Israel’s monarchy)
  • Geographic Location: Gaza (Philistine territory)
  • Key Characters: Samson, the Philistine rulers and crowd, Dagon (Philistine deity), Samson’s family

The Narrative

The Beginning:
After Samson is captured by the Philistines, they blind him and imprison him in Gaza, forcing him to do hard labor. Over time, Samson’s hair begins to grow again. The Philistines then plan a public celebration, crediting their god Dagon for delivering Samson into their hands.

The Middle:
At a large gathering, the Philistine rulers bring Samson out to entertain the crowd in their temple. Samson asks a servant to place him where he can feel the supporting pillars. He prays to the LORD, asking for strength one last time, and then braces himself against the pillars.

The End:
Samson pushes with all his strength, and the temple collapses, killing the rulers and many others inside. Samson dies in the collapse along with his enemies. His relatives recover his body and bury him in the family tomb, and his judgeship is summarized as lasting twenty years.

Theological Meaning

This account emphasizes that Israel’s deliverance, even through a deeply flawed judge, depends on the LORD’s power rather than human strength. Samson’s final prayer highlights the importance of turning to God in desperation and acknowledges that true victory is ultimately God’s to grant. The narrative also portrays the conflict as spiritual as well as political: the Philistines attribute triumph to Dagon, but the outcome underscores the LORD’s sovereignty over rival claims and powers.

Historical & Cultural Insight

Philistine temples were built for public religious celebrations and could include an interior space supported by prominent pillars. Judges portrays the event as occurring in a crowded temple setting during a festival for Dagon, reflecting the common ancient Near Eastern practice of linking military success with a deity’s favor and celebrating victories in major cult centers.

Key Memory Verse

“O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once.” — Judges 16:28

Quizzes

Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.

1. After Samson was captured by the Philistines, what did they do to him in Gaza?

2. What happened when Samson pushed against the supporting pillars in the temple?