Samson and Delilah

Judges 13:1–16:31

Samson is announced before his birth as one set apart to God and begins to deliver Israel from the Philistines. His strength is associated with the LORD’s empowerment and his Nazirite consecration, symbolized in the uncut hair of his head. Samson’s impulsive choices, conflicts, and relationship with Delilah bring repeated consequences. After Delilah obtains the secret of his strength, a man shaves Samson’s hair; the LORD departs from him, and the Philistines capture, blind, and imprison him. At a Philistine celebration in Dagon’s temple, Samson prays for remembrance and strength, then pulls down the central pillars, killing himself and many Philistines. The account emphasizes calling, dependence on God, betrayal, consequences, and a solemn final act against Israel’s oppressors.

Open Samson and Delilah: 4-Scene Story Sheet