Old Testament
Judges 15:18
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Samson was desperately thirsty, so he cried out to the LORD, "You have given this great deliverance into the hand of your servant, and now shall I die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?"
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And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised?
What Judges 15:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 15:18, we see Samson in a moment of desperation after a great victory over the Philistines. He is extremely thirsty and feels that his physical need for water is so urgent that it could lead to his death. Samson acknowledges that God has empowered him to achieve this significant deliverance, yet he questions whether he will now perish from thirst and fall into the hands of his enemies. This verse highlights the tension between spiritual triumph and physical vulnerability. It shows that even a strong leader like Samson can feel weak and helpless in dire situations. His cry to the Lord reflects a deep reliance on God, recognizing that his strength comes from divine assistance. This moment serves as a reminder that our physical needs can sometimes overshadow our spiritual victories, and it encourages believers to turn to God in times of need, trusting in His provision and care.
How to apply Judges 15:18 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, it's easy to feel desperate and alone. Like Samson, we should remember to turn to God in our times of need, trusting that He will provide for us both spiritually and physically. Prayer is essential in these moments.
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 15:18
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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 15:18 mean?
Judges 15:18 shows Samson in a moment of desperation after a victory, feeling extremely thirsty and fearing death. He acknowledges God's role in his success but questions whether he will now perish from thirst, highlighting the struggle between spiritual triumph and physical need.
What does the phrase 'great deliverance' refer to in Judges 15:18?
The phrase 'great deliverance' in Judges 15:18 refers to the victory Samson achieved over the Philistines, showcasing God's power working through him. It highlights the contrast between his spiritual success and his immediate physical need.
How does Judges 15:18 relate to physical needs and spiritual victories?
Judges 15:18 illustrates the tension between physical needs and spiritual victories, showing that even after achieving great things, one can still face urgent physical challenges. It serves as a reminder to seek God's help in both areas.
What can we learn from Samson's situation in Judges 15:18?
From Samson's situation in Judges 15:18, we learn the importance of turning to God in times of need. It encourages us to trust in God's provision, especially when we feel overwhelmed by our physical circumstances.
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