Samson's riddle

Samson's riddle is a scriptural anecdote from the Book of Judges (Judges 14:12-18) in the Hebrew Bible. It is a story about Samson, one of the last of the Judges of Israel, who poses a riddle to his thirty Philistine guests, in the context of a feast that was customary for young men of the time. The riddle is part of the larger narrative of Samson's life and exploits, and it has been the subject of various interpretations and analyses over the centuries.

The Riddle

The riddle Samson posed to the Philistines was: "Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet." The answer to the riddle is a lion's carcass, in which bees had formed honey. Samson had previously killed a lion with his bare hands and later discovered the bees and honey in its carcass on a subsequent journey. This event is not disclosed to the Philistines, making the riddle seemingly impossible to solve.

Context and Interpretation

The context of Samson's riddle is deeply embedded in the cultural, social, and religious fabric of ancient Israel and its surroundings. The riddle was not merely a game or a challenge but was laden with symbolic meanings and implications. It reflected the enigmatic and miraculous nature of Samson's own life and strength, which was derived from his Nazarite vow to God. The riddle, therefore, can be seen as a metaphor for the divine mysteries and the paradoxes of strength and vulnerability, life and death.

Philistine Response

Unable to solve the riddle, the Philistines threaten Samson's wife, coercing her into betraying Samson by obtaining the answer. Upon learning the answer through deceit, the Philistines reply to Samson, "What is sweeter than honey? What is stronger than a lion?" This response reveals their understanding of the riddle's solution but also underscores the themes of betrayal and conflict that run through Samson's story.

Themes and Analysis

Samson's riddle is rich in themes and motifs, including the juxtaposition of strength and weakness, the role of the divine in human affairs, and the complexity of human relationships. It also touches upon the idea of knowledge as power and the dangers of deceit and betrayal. Scholars and theologians have long debated the riddle's deeper meanings, seeing in it reflections of the human condition and the mysterious ways of the divine.

Cultural Impact

The story of Samson's riddle has transcended its biblical origins to become a part of broader cultural and literary traditions. It has been referenced in various works of literature, art, and music, serving as a symbol of enigma, strength, and the human struggle with the divine and the self. The story of Samson and his riddle continues to be a subject of study and interpretation in religious studies, literature, and art history.

See Also

• Book of Judges
• Samson
• Nazarite
• Philistines