Old Testament
Judges 16:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Samson reached out and gripped the 2 central pillars that supported the entire building — his right hand on one and his left hand on the other.
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And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars upon which the house stood, and on which it was borne up, of the one with his right hand, and of the other with his left.
What Judges 16:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Samson, who had been captured and blinded by the Philistines, finds himself in a temple filled with people celebrating their victory over him. Despite his weakened state, he calls upon God for strength one last time. By gripping the two central pillars of the temple, he positions himself to bring the structure down. This act symbolizes not only his physical strength but also his desire for revenge against his enemies. The pillars represent the support of the temple, and by pulling them down, Samson aims to defeat the Philistines and fulfill his role as a judge of Israel. This moment highlights themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions, as Samson's life comes to a tragic end while also delivering a significant blow to his oppressors.
How to apply Judges 16:29 to your life
This verse reminds us that even in our weakest moments, we can seek strength from God. It encourages us to confront our challenges and stand firm against oppression, trusting that we can make a difference, no matter our circumstances.
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 16:29
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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 Samson's act of pulling down the pillars symbolize?
Samson's act of pulling down the pillars symbolizes his final act of strength and revenge against the Philistines who had captured and humiliated him. It represents a moment of redemption, where despite his physical weakness and blindness, he calls upon God for strength to defeat his enemies. The pillars also signify the support of the temple, and by destroying them, Samson aims to bring down not just the structure but also the power of his oppressors.
How can we apply Samson's story to our lives today?
Samson's story teaches us that even in our weakest moments, we can seek strength from God. It encourages us to confront our challenges and stand firm against oppression, reminding us that our circumstances do not define our ability to make a difference. This verse inspires us to trust in divine intervention and to act courageously, even when we feel powerless.
What lessons about consequences can we learn from Judges 16:29?
Judges 16:29 highlights the consequences of Samson's earlier choices, including his relationships and his disregard for God's commands. His tragic end serves as a reminder that our actions have repercussions, and while redemption is possible, it often comes with a cost. This verse encourages us to reflect on our decisions and their potential impact on our lives and the lives of others.
Why did Samson call upon God for strength in this moment?
Samson called upon God for strength in this moment because he was in a dire situation, having been captured and blinded by the Philistines. Despite his past failures, he sought God's help one last time to fulfill his purpose as a judge of Israel. This act of calling on God demonstrates his recognition of divine power and his desire to reclaim his strength to defeat his enemies.
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