Old Testament
Judges 14:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Samson challenges his guests at a wedding feast with a riddle, promising a reward of thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothing if they can solve it within seven days.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Samson said to them, "Let me give you a riddle. If you can solve it during the 7 days of the feast, I'll give you 30 linen garments and 30 sets of clothing."
And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty change of garments:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Samson challenges his guests at a wedding feast with a riddle, promising a reward of thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothing if they can solve it within seven days. This riddle serves as a test of their wit and intelligence. The context of the feast indicates a celebratory atmosphere, but Samson's riddle also hints at his desire to assert his strength and cleverness. The garments he offers as a prize symbolize wealth and status, which were significant in ancient cultures. This moment foreshadows the tension that will arise as the guests struggle to solve the riddle, leading to further conflict. Samson's use of a riddle reflects his complex character—he is both a man of strength and a figure who enjoys playing games with others, revealing a layer of his personality that is both playful and competitive.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 14:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to engage in healthy competition and use our intellect in social settings. It reminds us that challenges can foster camaraderie and excitement, but we should also be mindful of how our actions may lead to conflict or misunderstandings with others.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 14:12 mean?
Judges 14:12 describes Samson presenting a riddle to his wedding guests, offering a reward of thirty garments if they can solve it within seven days. This moment highlights his cleverness and sets the stage for future conflict.
What is the significance of the riddle in Judges 14:12?
The riddle in Judges 14:12 serves as a test of intelligence among Samson's guests and reflects his playful yet competitive nature. It also foreshadows the tension that will arise as they struggle to solve it.
What does Samson promise in Judges 14:12?
In Judges 14:12, Samson promises to give thirty linen garments and thirty sets of clothing to anyone who can solve his riddle within the seven days of the feast.
What themes are present in Judges 14:12?
Judges 14:12 includes themes of riddles, challenge, cleverness, and conflict. It also touches on the concepts of strength and wealth, as the garments symbolize status in ancient culture.
The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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