Judges 16:26

"When their hearts were merry, they said, “Call for Samson, that he may entertain us.” They called for Samson out of the prison; and he performed before them. They set him between the pillars;"

Key Reflection

In Judges 16:26, when Samson's enemies were celebrating and feasting, they wanted to see him perform for their entertainment, perhaps expecting another of his miraculous feats. By setting him between the pillars, they intended a spectacle that would either amaze them or bring about his downfall, unaware of the divine judgment soon to come upon them. The original audience would have recognized this as part of the narrative highlighting Samson's strength and the Philistines' cruelty, setting the stage for his ultimate defeat and death.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

More literally, “let me rest, and let me feel the pillars, that I may lean upon them.” He feigned weariness with his dancing and singing, and asked to recover himself by leaning against the pillars. The flat roof, from the top of which, as well as under it, spectators could see what was being done on the stage in front, was mainly supported by two pillars. The lords and principal persons sat UNDER the roof, while the people, to the number of 3,000, stood ON the flat roof.

More from Judges 16

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