Old Testament
Judges 16:26
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Samson, who has been captured and blinded by the Philistines, asks a young boy to guide him to the pillars of the temple where he is being held.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Samson said to the boy who was leading him by the hand, "Let me touch the pillars that hold up this building so I can lean against them."
And Samson said unto the lad that held him by the hand, Suffer me that I may feel the pillars whereupon the house standeth, that I may lean upon them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Samson, who has been captured and blinded by the Philistines, asks a young boy to guide him to the pillars of the temple where he is being held. His request to touch the pillars indicates his desire to feel the structure that supports the building. This moment is significant as it foreshadows his plan to bring down the temple, which symbolizes his final act of strength against his enemies. Despite his physical weakness, Samson's faith in God remains, and he seeks to fulfill his purpose by sacrificing himself to defeat the Philistines. This verse highlights the themes of reliance on God, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions. It serves as a poignant reminder of how even in moments of despair, one can find strength and purpose through faith.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 16:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek God's strength in our moments of weakness. Just as Samson leaned on the pillars, we can lean on our faith during challenging times. It reminds us that even in our lowest moments, we can fulfill our purpose and make a significant impact.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Samson's request to touch the pillars signify?
Samson's request to touch the pillars symbolizes his desire to reconnect with his strength and purpose, even in his weakened state. It foreshadows his plan to bring down the temple, representing his final act of defiance against the Philistines. This moment highlights the themes of redemption and reliance on God, as Samson seeks to fulfill his destiny despite his physical limitations.
How does Judges 16:26 relate to the theme of faith?
Judges 16:26 illustrates the theme of faith by showing that even in his darkest hour, Samson still seeks God's strength. His act of leaning against the pillars signifies a moment of reliance on divine power, demonstrating that faith can provide hope and purpose, even when one feels defeated. This encourages readers to trust in God during their own struggles.
What lessons can we learn from Samson's actions in this verse?
From Samson's actions in Judges 16:26, we learn the importance of seeking strength in our weaknesses and the potential for redemption. Samson's willingness to sacrifice himself for a greater purpose teaches us that even in our failures, we can still make a significant impact. It encourages us to remain faithful and to trust that our lives can have meaning, even in challenging circumstances.
Why is the context of Samson's blindness important in this verse?
Samson's blindness adds depth to Judges 16:26, emphasizing his vulnerability and the consequences of his past actions. It serves as a reminder that our choices can lead to dire outcomes, yet even in such states, we can find a path to redemption. His blindness contrasts with his inner strength and faith, highlighting that true power comes from God, not physical sight.
The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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