Old Testament
Judges 14:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
His father went down to meet the woman's family, and Samson threw a feast there, as was the custom for young bridegrooms.
Compare translations
So his father went down unto the woman: and Samson made there a feast; for so used the young men to do.
What Judges 14:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 14:10, we see Samson's father visiting the family of the woman he wishes to marry. This visit is significant as it reflects the customs of the time, where the groom's family would formally meet the bride's family. Samson, in this context, organizes a feast, which is a traditional celebration for young men about to marry. This feast serves not only as a way to honor the occasion but also to bring together both families in a festive atmosphere. The act of feasting symbolizes joy and community, highlighting the importance of relationships and social gatherings in ancient Israelite culture. It also sets the stage for the events that will unfold in Samson's life, as his choices and actions will have significant consequences. This moment captures the blend of personal desire and cultural expectations, illustrating how Samson navigates his relationships within the framework of societal norms.
How to apply Judges 14:10 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of family and community in significant life events. When making major decisions, such as marriage, it is beneficial to involve family and honor traditions. Celebrating milestones together strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Samson's story: Samson's Riddle (Judges 14:10–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Samson
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Judges 14:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Judges 14:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 14:10 say about marriage customs?
Judges 14:10 highlights the custom of the groom's family visiting the bride's family, which was a significant tradition in ancient Israelite culture. This visit was part of the formal engagement process, where the families would meet and celebrate the upcoming marriage. The verse also mentions Samson throwing a feast, emphasizing the importance of communal celebrations during such milestones.
Why did Samson throw a feast in Judges 14:10?
Samson threw a feast in Judges 14:10 as part of the traditional customs for young bridegrooms. Feasting was a way to celebrate the engagement and bring together both families in a joyful atmosphere. It served not only to honor the occasion but also to strengthen familial bonds and create a sense of community around the marriage.
What can we learn about family involvement from Judges 14:10?
Judges 14:10 teaches us the importance of family involvement in significant life events, such as marriage. The verse illustrates how Samson's father took the initiative to meet the bride's family, reflecting the value placed on family relationships and traditions. This involvement can help ensure support and strengthen connections during major life decisions.
How does Judges 14:10 reflect cultural traditions?
Judges 14:10 reflects cultural traditions by showcasing the customs surrounding marriage in ancient Israel. The visit of Samson's father to the bride's family and the subsequent feast are indicative of the societal norms that emphasized family gatherings and celebrations during engagements. These traditions highlight the communal aspect of marriage and the importance of honoring cultural practices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.