Old Testament
Judges 15:6
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The Philistines demanded, "Who did this?" They were told, "Samson, the son-in-law of the man from Timnah — because the man gave Samson's wife to his best man." So the Philistines went and burned her and her father to death.
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Then the Philistines said, Who hath done this? And they answered, Samson, the son in law of the Timnite, because he had taken his wife, and given her to his companion. And the Philistines came up, and burnt her and her father with fire.
What Judges 15:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Philistines are seeking revenge after discovering that Samson had wronged them by taking his wife. They learn that Samson, who is the son-in-law of a Timnite, had given his wife to another man, which infuriates them. In retaliation, the Philistines brutally kill Samson's wife and her father by burning them alive. This act of violence highlights the cycle of revenge and conflict between Samson and the Philistines, illustrating the severe consequences of betrayal and the lengths to which people will go to settle scores. The verse serves as a grim reminder of the destructive nature of vengeance and the collateral damage it can cause to innocent lives caught in the crossfire of personal feuds. It also sets the stage for further conflict between Samson and the Philistines, as his actions lead to escalating violence and tragedy.
How to apply Judges 15:6 to your life
This verse teaches us about the dangers of revenge and how it can lead to devastating consequences for innocent people. It encourages us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness instead of retaliation, reminding us that our actions can have far-reaching effects on others.
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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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 15:6 mean?
Judges 15:6 describes how the Philistines sought revenge against Samson after learning he had wronged them by giving his wife to another man. In retaliation, they brutally killed Samson's wife and her father, highlighting the cycle of violence and revenge.
What is the meaning of revenge in Judges 15:6?
In Judges 15:6, revenge is depicted as a destructive force, as the Philistines respond to Samson's betrayal by killing innocent people. This act of vengeance illustrates the severe consequences that can arise from personal conflicts.
What themes are present in Judges 15:6?
Judges 15:6 presents themes of revenge, betrayal, violence, and the tragic consequences of conflict. It illustrates how personal grievances can lead to broader violence, affecting innocent lives caught in the middle.
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