Old Testament
Judges 16:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Samson cried out to the LORD, "Lord GOD, please remember me. Strengthen me just one more time, God, so I can pay back the Philistines for taking my 2 eyes."
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And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord God, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.
What Judges 16:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Samson, who has been captured and blinded by the Philistines, turns to God in a moment of desperation. He acknowledges his weakness and pleads for strength one last time to take revenge on those who harmed him. This cry reflects his deep regret and desire for justice. Despite his previous failures and the consequences of his actions, Samson seeks God's help, showing that he still believes in God's power. His request is not just for personal vengeance but also a restoration of his honor and purpose. This moment highlights the themes of redemption and the complexity of human emotions, as Samson grapples with his past mistakes while seeking a final act of strength to confront his enemies. It serves as a reminder that even in our lowest moments, we can turn to God for help and strength, emphasizing the importance of humility and reliance on divine power.
How to apply Judges 16:28 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, we can turn to God for strength and guidance. Like Samson, we may feel weak and regretful, but God is always ready to help us. Trusting in His power can lead to restoration and purpose in our lives.
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 16:28
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 16:28 mean?
Judges 16:28 shows Samson in a moment of desperation as he asks God for strength one last time to avenge the Philistines who blinded him. It reflects his acknowledgment of weakness and his desire for justice, highlighting themes of redemption and reliance on divine help.
What is the significance of Samson's plea in Judges 16:28?
Samson's plea in Judges 16:28 signifies his recognition of his failures and his need for God's strength to confront his enemies. It illustrates the human struggle with regret and the hope for redemption, emphasizing that even in dire circumstances, one can seek divine assistance.
What does Samson mean by 'strengthen me just one more time'?
When Samson asks God to 'strengthen me just one more time,' he is expressing a desperate need for divine power to achieve a final act of vengeance against the Philistines. This request underscores his belief in God's ability to restore his strength despite his past mistakes.
How does Judges 16:28 relate to themes of redemption?
Judges 16:28 relates to themes of redemption by showcasing Samson's desire to reclaim his honor and purpose through a final act of strength. His cry to God reflects a longing for forgiveness and a chance to make things right after a life of failures.
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