Old Testament
Judges 15:13
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"We won't kill you," they promised. "We'll just tie you up tight and hand you over to them." So they bound him with 2 new ropes and led him up from the rock.
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And they spake unto him, saying, No; but we will bind thee fast, and deliver thee into their hand: but surely we will not kill thee. And they bound him with two new cords, and brought him up from the rock.
What Judges 15:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 15:13, the context involves Samson, who is a judge of Israel known for his incredible strength. The people of Judah are afraid of the Philistines, who are oppressing them. When they confront Samson, they assure him that they will not kill him but will instead bind him and hand him over to the Philistines, who are their enemies. They use two new ropes to tie him up, indicating that they are serious about their intentions. This moment highlights the tension between Samson and his own people, as well as the fear they have of the Philistines. It also sets the stage for Samson's eventual escape and the display of his strength against the Philistines. The use of new ropes symbolizes the fresh attempt to control Samson, but it ultimately fails, showcasing the theme of divine strength overcoming human limitations.
How to apply Judges 15:13 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with pressure from others. It encourages us to trust in our own strength and convictions, rather than succumbing to fear or the expectations of those around us. We can find courage in our faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: The Jawbone at Lehi (Judges 15:9–20)
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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 15:13
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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 15:13 mean?
Judges 15:13 describes a moment when the people of Judah confront Samson, promising not to kill him but to bind him and deliver him to the Philistines. This reflects their fear of the Philistines and their willingness to betray Samson, highlighting the conflict between him and his own people.
What is the significance of the new ropes in Judges 15:13?
The new ropes in Judges 15:13 symbolize a fresh attempt to control Samson, who is known for his extraordinary strength. Despite being bound tightly, this moment foreshadows his eventual escape and the demonstration of divine strength that overcomes human limitations.
How does Judges 15:13 relate to the theme of fear?
Judges 15:13 highlights the fear of the people of Judah towards the Philistines, leading them to betray Samson. Their fear drives them to bind Samson instead of standing with him, showcasing how fear can influence decisions and actions.
What lesson can we learn from Judges 15:13?
Judges 15:13 teaches us about the importance of standing firm in our beliefs and not succumbing to pressure from others. It encourages us to trust in our own strength and convictions, even when faced with fear or betrayal.
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