Old Testament

Judges 16:8

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Judges 16:8, the Philistine rulers provide Delilah with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, which are used to bind Samson.

Author: Traditionally attributed to Samuel
Written: Around 1050-1000 BC
Genre: Historical narrative
Original Audience: The Israelites living under the judges

CBTClear Bible Translation

So the Philistine rulers brought her 7 fresh bowstrings that hadn't been dried, and she tied him up with them.

KJVKing James Version

Then the lords of the Philistines brought up to her seven green withs which had not been dried, and she bound him with them.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Judges 16:8, the Philistine rulers provide Delilah with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, which are used to bind Samson. This moment highlights the cunning and deceitful nature of Delilah, as she is working with the Philistines to capture Samson, who is known for his incredible strength. The use of fresh bowstrings symbolizes a trap that is set for Samson, as he is unaware of Delilah's true intentions. This verse sets the stage for the eventual betrayal of Samson by someone he loves and trusts. It illustrates the theme of betrayal and the consequences of misplaced trust. Samson's strength is tied to his uncut hair, but here, the focus is on the physical binding that Delilah employs, showcasing the tension between strength and vulnerability. This moment is pivotal in the narrative, leading to the eventual downfall of Samson, emphasizing the dangers of temptation and the importance of discernment in relationships.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Judges 16:8 to your life

This verse reminds us to be cautious about whom we trust and to be aware of potential betrayals in our relationships. It encourages us to seek wisdom and discernment, ensuring that we are not easily led astray by those who may have ulterior motives.

Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Judges 16:8 teach about trust?

Judges 16:8 illustrates the dangers of misplaced trust, particularly in relationships. Delilah's betrayal of Samson highlights how someone close to us can have ulterior motives. This verse serves as a reminder to be discerning about whom we confide in and to be vigilant against those who may not have our best interests at heart.

Why did Delilah use fresh bowstrings to bind Samson?

Delilah used fresh bowstrings, which had not been dried, to bind Samson as part of a scheme to capture him. Fresh bowstrings symbolize a trap, emphasizing the cunning nature of her betrayal. This choice also reflects the physical strength and vulnerability of Samson, as he was unaware of the danger posed by someone he loved.

What is the significance of the number seven in this verse?

The number seven in Judges 16:8 often symbolizes completeness or perfection in biblical texts. By using seven fresh bowstrings, the narrative emphasizes the thoroughness of Delilah's betrayal and the extent to which she was willing to go to deceive Samson. This completeness adds weight to the theme of betrayal and the consequences of deception.

How does this verse relate to the theme of temptation?

Judges 16:8 relates to the theme of temptation by showcasing how Delilah lured Samson into a false sense of security. Her actions exemplify how temptation can come from trusted sources, leading to one's downfall. This moment serves as a cautionary tale about being aware of seductive influences that can lead us away from our values and strength.

Book Summary

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.

A new generation arises that does not know the Lord or the works He has done for Israel. This generation forsakes the God of their fathers, turning to worship the Baals and Ashtaroth of the surrounding peoples. This apostasy provokes the Lord's anger, and He hands them over to their enemies, who oppress them. When the Israelites cry out to the Lord in their misery, He raises up judges—deliverers who save them from their oppressors. However, as soon as a judge dies, the people relapse into even greater corruption, returning to their idolatrous ways. This establishes the book's central, recurring cycle: sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance, followed by a period of rest, and then a return to sin. Judges 3: Othniel, Ehud, and Shamgar The first cycle of judgment begins as the Israelites do evil in the sight of the Lord and worship idols. God's anger burns against them, and He sells them into the hands of Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Mesopotamia, whom they serve for eight years. When the people cry out to the Lord, He raises up Othniel, the younger brother of Caleb, as their deliverer. The Spirit of the Lord comes upon him, and he leads Israel to victory, defeating the Mesopotamian king. The land has peace for forty years until Othniel's death. After Othniel dies, the Israelites again do evil, and God strengthens Eglon, the king of Moab, against them. Eglon, allied with the Ammonites and Amalekites, defeats Israel and captures the city of palms, Jericho. The Israelites are subject to Moab for eighteen years. When they cry out for help, God raises up Ehud, a left-handed man from the tribe of Benjamin. While delivering Israel's tribute, Ehud uses his left-handedness to his advantage, concealing a dagger on his right thigh. In a private audience with the obese King Eglon, he claims to have a secret message from God and stabs the king in the belly. Ehud escapes, rallies the Israelite forces, and leads them to a decisive victory over the Moabites, killing about 10,000 of their soldiers. The land enjoys peace for eighty years. After Ehud, Shamgar son of Anath is mentioned, who strikes down 600 Philistines with an oxgoad, also saving Israel.

Premium

Unlock the full Judges summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Judges — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 21 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Judges summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.

← Verse 7 Verse 9 →