Old Testament
Judges 14:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Judges 14:6, we see a powerful moment in the life of Samson, where the Spirit of the LORD empowers him to perform an extraordinary feat.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
The Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he tore the lion apart with his bare hands as easily as someone would tear apart a young goat. But he didn't tell his father or mother what he had done.
And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 14:6, we see a powerful moment in the life of Samson, where the Spirit of the LORD empowers him to perform an extraordinary feat. He encounters a lion and, with divine strength, tears it apart as easily as one would handle a young goat. This act demonstrates not only his physical strength but also the presence of God's Spirit in his life. Interestingly, Samson chooses not to share this incredible experience with his parents, which may suggest a sense of personal mission or a desire to keep his divine encounters private. This moment foreshadows the unique role Samson will play as a judge of Israel, highlighting the theme of divine empowerment and the responsibilities that come with it. Samson's actions also raise questions about the nature of strength and the importance of humility in the face of extraordinary abilities.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 14:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the power of the Spirit in our lives. Just as Samson was empowered for his purpose, we too can seek divine strength for our challenges. It reminds us to act with humility and discernment in sharing our experiences.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 14:6 mean?
Judges 14:6 describes how the Spirit of the LORD empowered Samson to tear apart a lion with his bare hands, showcasing his extraordinary strength and the divine presence in his life. This act signifies Samson's unique role as a judge of Israel and highlights themes of divine empowerment.
What is the significance of the lion in Judges 14:6?
The lion in Judges 14:6 represents a formidable challenge that Samson overcomes through divine strength. This moment illustrates not only his physical prowess but also the idea that with God's help, one can conquer great obstacles.
What does 'the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him' mean?
The phrase 'the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him' indicates that Samson was filled with divine power, enabling him to perform extraordinary feats. This empowerment is a key aspect of his identity and purpose as a judge of Israel.
How does Judges 14:6 relate to the theme of strength?
Judges 14:6 emphasizes the theme of strength by illustrating how Samson, through the Spirit of the LORD, demonstrates physical might beyond human capability. It serves as a reminder of the potential for divine empowerment in facing life's challenges.

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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