Old Testament
Judges 16:25
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When their hearts were merry, they said, "Call for Samson, so he can entertain us." They brought Samson out of the prison, and he entertained them. They placed him between the pillars.
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And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made them sport: and they set him between the pillars.
What Judges 16:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Philistines, who had captured Samson, were celebrating and feeling joyful. They decided to bring Samson out of prison to entertain them, showing their mockery and disdain for him. Samson, once a mighty judge of Israel, was now a source of amusement for his enemies. They placed him between two pillars in a large gathering, likely in a temple or a public space, where they could showcase their victory over him. This moment highlights the humiliation Samson faced and the shift from his previous strength to his current weakness. It also sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, where Samson's true strength and purpose will be revealed once again, despite his current state of captivity. The verse illustrates themes of pride, mockery, and the fleeting nature of human joy, especially when it comes at the expense of others.
How to apply Judges 16:25 to your life
This verse reminds us to be cautious about how we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and words, ensuring they uplift rather than demean. We should strive to show compassion instead of mockery, recognizing the inherent dignity in every person.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: The House of Dagon (Judges 16:21–31)
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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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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Judges 16:25
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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 16:25 mean?
Judges 16:25 describes a moment when the Philistines, celebrating their victory over Samson, brought him out of prison to mock and entertain themselves. This highlights Samson's humiliation and the drastic change from his former strength to his current weakness.
What is the significance of Samson being placed between the pillars in Judges 16:25?
Placing Samson between the pillars symbolizes his role as a spectacle for the Philistines, showcasing their triumph over him. It sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, where his true strength will be revealed despite his captivity.
What themes are present in Judges 16:25?
Judges 16:25 includes themes of humiliation, mockery, and the contrast between strength and weakness. It also reflects on pride and the fleeting nature of joy that comes at the expense of others.
Why did the Philistines want Samson to entertain them in Judges 16:25?
The Philistines wanted Samson to entertain them as a way to celebrate their victory and mock him, demonstrating their disdain for someone who was once a powerful judge of Israel.
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