Old Testament
Judges 14:16
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So Samson's wife went to him in tears and said, "You must hate me! You don't love me at all! You gave my people a riddle and won't even tell me the answer." He replied, "I haven't even told my own father and mother — why would I tell you?"
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And Samson’s wife wept before him, and said, Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou hast put forth a riddle unto the children of my people, and hast not told it me. And he said unto her, Behold, I have not told it my father nor my mother, and shall I tell it thee?
What Judges 14:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Samson's wife expresses her feelings of betrayal and sadness. She believes that Samson must hate her because he has shared a riddle with her people but refuses to share the answer with her. This highlights her insecurity and the strain in their relationship. Samson responds by pointing out that he has not even shared the riddle with his own parents, implying that he is not singling her out. This exchange reveals the tension between them and the challenges of communication in their marriage. It also reflects the cultural expectations of loyalty and openness in relationships. Samson's reluctance to share the riddle may stem from his desire to maintain a sense of mystery or protectiveness, but it ultimately leads to misunderstandings and emotional distress for his wife. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and trust in relationships, as well as the potential consequences of keeping secrets from loved ones.
How to apply Judges 14:16 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of open communication in relationships. When we withhold information or fail to express our feelings, it can lead to misunderstandings and hurt. Strive to be honest and transparent with loved ones to build trust and strengthen bonds.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: Samson's Riddle (Judges 14:10–20)
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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.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Judges 14:16
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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 14:16 mean?
Judges 14:16 depicts a moment of emotional conflict between Samson and his wife. She feels betrayed because he shared a riddle with her people but won't tell her the answer, highlighting issues of trust and communication in their relationship.
What is the significance of the riddle in Judges 14:16?
The riddle in Judges 14:16 serves as a plot device that creates tension between Samson and his wife. It symbolizes the barriers to understanding and intimacy that can arise when communication is lacking.
How does Judges 14:16 reflect relationship dynamics?
Judges 14:16 illustrates the strain in Samson and his wife's relationship due to feelings of insecurity and lack of openness. It emphasizes the need for clear communication to avoid misunderstandings.
What can we learn from Judges 14:16 about communication?
Judges 14:16 teaches that withholding information can lead to emotional distress and misunderstandings in relationships. It highlights the importance of being honest and transparent with loved ones.
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