Samson

Lucas Cranach d.Ä. - Simson bezwingt den Löwen

Eustache Le Sueur - The Sacrifice of Manoah, 1640-1650

Tissot Samson Slays a Thousand Men

José Echenagusía - Samson and Delilah - Google Art Project

Lovis Corinth - Der geblendete Simson - Google Art Project

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Samson hos filistrene

Samson is a Biblical figure known for his superhuman strength, which is central to his narrative in the Book of Judges, chapters 13 to 16. He is one of the last of the Judges of Israel, a role that predates the establishment of kings in Israel. Samson's life story is filled with paradoxes and controversies, making him a subject of interest not only in religious studies but also in cultural and literary analyses.

Birth and Nazirite Vow

Samson's birth was foretold by an angel to his mother, who was barren. His parents were from the tribe of Dan and lived in Zorah. The angel instructed that Samson was to be a Nazirite from birth. According to Jewish law, a Nazirite vow is a commitment to God involving abstention from wine and grape products, refraining from cutting the hair, and avoiding contact with dead bodies, symbolizing a life dedicated to spiritual purity.

Supernatural Strength and Philistine Conflicts

The source of Samson's strength was his uncut hair, a condition of his Nazirite vow. His feats of strength included killing a lion with his bare hands, slaying an entire army with the jawbone of a donkey, and tearing down the gates of Gaza. Samson's struggles against the Philistines are depicted as both personal and part of the larger conflict between Israel and Philistine oppression.

Delilah and Betrayal

The most famous episode in Samson's life involves his betrayal by Delilah, a woman who, in exchange for a bribe from the Philistine lords, coaxed him into revealing the secret of his strength. After three unsuccessful attempts, she finally learned that his strength would leave him if his hair were cut. While he slept, Delilah had his hair shaved off, leading to his capture by the Philistines, who then gouged out his eyes and imprisoned him.

Death and Legacy

Samson's story concludes with his death, which occurred when he was brought to the temple of Dagon, a Philistine god, to entertain them. Praying to God for strength one last time, he pushed apart the pillars of the temple, collapsing the building and killing himself along with thousands of Philistines. This act of self-sacrifice is seen as a form of redemption for his previous failings and disobedience to God.

Samson's narrative is rich in themes of faith, betrayal, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. It has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, from a literal historical account to allegorical and metaphorical readings. His story has inspired numerous artistic, literary, and cultural works, including paintings, operas, and films.

In Popular Culture

Samson's story has been adapted in various forms in popular culture, including movies, literature, and music. His character embodies the archetype of the flawed hero, whose strengths and weaknesses are intrinsically linked.

See Also

• Book of Judges
• Delilah
• Nazirite
• Philistines