Old Testament
Judges 16:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Samson only stayed until midnight. Then he got up, grabbed the doors of the city gate along with both posts, and ripped them out of the ground — bar and all. He hoisted them onto his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron.
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And Samson lay till midnight, and arose at midnight, and took the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts, and went away with them, bar and all, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried them up to the top of an hill that is before Hebron.
What Judges 16:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a remarkable display of Samson's strength. After spending the night in the city, he rises at midnight and decides to leave. Instead of simply walking out, he demonstrates his extraordinary power by uprooting the city gates, which were heavy and securely fastened. He takes the gates, including the posts and the bar, and carries them on his shoulders to a hill near Hebron. This act symbolizes not only his physical strength but also his defiance against the Philistines, who were oppressing the Israelites. By taking the gates, Samson shows that he is not afraid of the enemy and that he has the power to overcome obstacles. This moment highlights both his unique abilities and the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and their oppressors, setting the stage for further events in his life and the narrative of Judges.
How to apply Judges 16:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize our own strengths and the power we have to overcome challenges. Just as Samson demonstrated courage in the face of oppression, we too can confront our obstacles with confidence. It reminds us to rely on our inner strength and not be afraid to take bold actions when necessary.
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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Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Judges 16:3
Related Bible verses
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 16:3 mean?
Judges 16:3 describes Samson's incredible strength as he uproots the city gates and carries them to a hill. This act symbolizes his defiance against the Philistines and showcases his power to overcome obstacles.
What does the phrase 'bar and all' mean in Judges 16:3?
The phrase 'bar and all' indicates that Samson took the entire gate structure, including the heavy bar that secured it. This emphasizes the extent of his strength and the completeness of his act.
How does Judges 16:3 relate to themes of courage and defiance?
This verse illustrates themes of courage and defiance through Samson's bold action of removing the city gates. It shows his willingness to confront the Philistines and symbolizes the fight against oppression.
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