Old Testament
Judges 16:1
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Samson traveled to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute and slept with her.
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Then went Samson to Gaza, and saw there an harlot, and went in unto her.
What Judges 16:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Samson, a judge of Israel known for his incredible strength, traveling to Gaza, a Philistine city. There, he encounters a prostitute and chooses to spend the night with her. This action highlights Samson's moral failings and his susceptibility to temptation. Despite being chosen by God for a special purpose, Samson often strayed from his commitments and made poor choices. His visit to Gaza signifies a deeper issue of his disregard for the laws and values of his people. The narrative sets the stage for the consequences of his actions, which will unfold in the following verses. This moment serves as a reminder of the dangers of giving in to temptation and the importance of staying true to one's values and responsibilities. Samson's story illustrates how even those with great potential can falter when they stray from their purpose and succumb to desires that lead them away from their calling.
How to apply Judges 16:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to be vigilant against temptation and to consider the consequences of our choices. Just as Samson faced repercussions for his actions, we too must strive to align our decisions with our values and responsibilities, avoiding situations that may lead us astray.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: The Gates of Gaza (Judges 16:1–3)
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Samson
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Judges 16:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 16:1 reveal about Samson's character?
Judges 16:1 highlights Samson's moral weaknesses and susceptibility to temptation. Despite being a judge chosen by God, Samson's choice to visit a prostitute in Gaza illustrates his disregard for the laws and values of Israel. This moment in his story serves as a reminder that even those with great potential can make poor choices that lead them away from their divine purpose.
Why did Samson go to Gaza in Judges 16:1?
Samson traveled to Gaza, a Philistine city, likely seeking personal gratification or escape. His visit signifies a deeper issue of his moral failings and a disregard for his responsibilities as a judge of Israel. This action sets the stage for the consequences he will face later in the narrative, emphasizing the dangers of straying from one's commitments.
What lessons can we learn from Samson's actions in Judges 16:1?
Samson's actions in Judges 16:1 teach us the importance of vigilance against temptation and the need to align our choices with our values. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of giving in to desires that conflict with our responsibilities. It reminds us to stay true to our commitments and to be aware of the potential consequences of our actions.
How does Judges 16:1 connect to the theme of temptation?
Judges 16:1 exemplifies the theme of temptation by showcasing Samson's vulnerability to his desires. His encounter with the prostitute illustrates how easily one can stray from their moral path when faced with temptation. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of resisting such temptations to avoid negative consequences and to remain faithful to one's purpose.
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