Old Testament
Judges 15:1
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Some time later, during the wheat harvest, Samson went to visit his wife and brought a young goat as a gift. He said, "I'm going to my wife's room." But her father wouldn't let him in.
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But it came to pass within a while after, in the time of wheat harvest, that Samson visited his wife with a kid; and he said, I will go in to my wife into the chamber. But her father would not suffer him to go in.
What Judges 15:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Samson returning to visit his wife after some time has passed, specifically during the wheat harvest, which is a significant agricultural period. He brings a young goat as a gift, a common practice in that culture to show goodwill and affection. However, when he arrives, he is met with an unexpected obstacle: his father-in-law does not allow him to enter his wife's chamber. This situation highlights the complexities of relationships and the consequences of previous actions. Samson's earlier conflicts with the Philistines and his marriage may have created tension, leading to this rejection. The verse sets the stage for further developments in Samson's story, illustrating themes of love, conflict, and the challenges of reconciliation in relationships.
How to apply Judges 15:1 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of communication and understanding in relationships. When conflicts arise, they can create barriers that prevent reconciliation. It encourages us to address issues openly and seek resolution rather than allowing misunderstandings to fester.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: Foxes and Firebrands (Judges 15:1–8)
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Samson
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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Keep studying Judges 15:1
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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 15:1 mean?
Judges 15:1 describes Samson visiting his wife during the wheat harvest, bringing a goat as a gift. However, he is prevented from entering her chamber by her father, indicating unresolved issues in their relationship.
What is the significance of the wheat harvest in Judges 15:1?
The wheat harvest in Judges 15:1 marks an important agricultural time, symbolizing abundance and the cycle of life. It sets the backdrop for Samson's visit, highlighting the cultural context of his actions.
What cultural practices are highlighted in Judges 15:1?
Judges 15:1 highlights the cultural practice of bringing gifts, such as a young goat, to express goodwill and affection in relationships, reflecting the customs of that time.
What themes are present in Judges 15:1?
Judges 15:1 presents themes of relationships, conflict, rejection, and the consequences of past actions, illustrating the complexities of human interactions.
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