Old Testament
Judges 15:14
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When he arrived at Lehi, the Philistines shouted against him. Then the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and the ropes on his arms became like flax burned with fire, and his bindings fell off his hands.
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And when he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted against him: and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and the cords that were upon his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands loosed from off his hands.
What Judges 15:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 15:14, we see a dramatic moment in the life of Samson. As he approaches Lehi, the Philistines, who are his enemies, shout at him, likely in anger and defiance. However, the Spirit of the LORD empowers Samson in a powerful way. This divine strength causes the ropes binding his arms to become as fragile as burnt flax, allowing him to break free. This event illustrates the theme of divine intervention, showing that God can provide strength in moments of great challenge. Samson's physical liberation symbolizes the spiritual freedom that comes from relying on God's power. The imagery of the ropes burning away emphasizes the intensity of God's presence and the effectiveness of His help. This moment not only highlights Samson's role as a judge and deliverer of Israel but also serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and reliance on God in overcoming obstacles.
How to apply Judges 15:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's power during our struggles. Just as Samson was empowered to break free from his bindings, we too can rely on God's strength to overcome challenges in our lives. Faith can lead to liberation.
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 15:14
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Key themes
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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 15:14 mean?
Judges 15:14 describes a moment when Samson confronts the Philistines, and the Spirit of the LORD empowers him, causing the ropes binding him to break free. This illustrates God's ability to provide strength in difficult situations.
What is the significance of the Spirit of the LORD in Judges 15:14?
The Spirit of the LORD in Judges 15:14 signifies divine empowerment, enabling Samson to overcome his physical restraints and confront his enemies. It highlights the theme of reliance on God's strength during challenges.
What does the imagery of ropes becoming like burnt flax mean in Judges 15:14?
The imagery of ropes becoming like burnt flax in Judges 15:14 symbolizes the fragility of human constraints when faced with divine power. It emphasizes how God's intervention can lead to liberation from bondage.
How can we apply Judges 15:14 to our lives?
Judges 15:14 encourages us to trust in God's power during our struggles. Just as Samson was empowered to break free, we can rely on God's strength to overcome our own challenges.
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