Old Testament
Judges 16:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Word spread among the people of Gaza: "Samson is here!" So they surrounded the area and waited for him all night at the city gate. They stayed quiet through the night, saying, "When morning comes, we'll kill him."
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And it was told the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him.
What Judges 16:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 16:2, news quickly spreads in Gaza that Samson, a well-known figure with immense strength, has arrived. The people of Gaza, fearing him due to his past actions against the Philistines, gather around the city gate to capture him. They remain silent throughout the night, planning to ambush him at dawn. This shows their determination and fear of Samson, as they believe they can finally defeat him. The verse highlights the tension between Samson and the Philistines, illustrating how his reputation precedes him and the lengths to which his enemies will go to eliminate him. The quiet waiting signifies their strategic approach, emphasizing the seriousness of their intent to kill him. This moment sets the stage for the unfolding drama of Samson's life and his ongoing conflict with the Philistines, showcasing themes of betrayal, strength, and the consequences of one's actions.
How to apply Judges 16:2 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of being aware of our surroundings and the intentions of others. Just as Samson faced danger from those who sought to harm him, we should be vigilant and wise in our interactions, ensuring we are prepared for challenges that may arise.
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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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 16:2 mean?
Judges 16:2 describes how the people of Gaza learned that Samson was in their city. They surrounded the city gate, planning to ambush him at dawn, reflecting their fear and determination to capture him due to his past actions against them.
What is the significance of Samson's reputation in Judges 16:2?
Samson's reputation as a powerful figure precedes him, causing the Gazites to take immediate action upon hearing he is in their city. This highlights the fear he instills in his enemies and sets the stage for the conflict between him and the Philistines.
What does the phrase 'laid wait for him all night' mean in Judges 16:2?
The phrase 'laid wait for him all night' indicates that the Gazites were strategically planning to ambush Samson. Their quiet vigilance throughout the night shows their serious intent to capture or kill him at the first light of day.
What themes are present in Judges 16:2?
Judges 16:2 presents themes of conflict, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions. It illustrates the tension between Samson and the Philistines, showcasing their fear of him and their willingness to plot against him.
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