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Book of Judges - Chapter 15 - Verse 17

15:17
And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast away the jawbone out of his hand, and called that place Ramathlehi.

Meaning

After Samson defeated a thousand Philistines with a jawbone of a donkey, he named the place “Ramathlehi," which means "the hill of the jawbone." This action symbolized the strength and power of God manifested through Samson. It also serves as a reminder of the miraculous victory achieved by Samson through God’s help. The act of casting away the jawbone can be interpreted as a sign of Samson’s humility and recognition of God’s role in his victory. By naming the place in honor of the jawbone, Samson may have been acknowledging the significance of God’s provision and intervention in his life. This event is a testament to the faithfulness and power of God to deliver His people in times of need. It serves as a lesson for readers to trust in God’s strength and guidance in facing their own battles.

Theological Overview

After Samson defeated a thousand Philistines with a jawbone of a donkey, he named the place where this miraculous event occurred Ramathlehi, meaning "the hill of the jawbone." This theological interpretation reveals the significance of this particular location in Samson's story. The act of casting away the jawbone could symbolize Samson's victory being solely attributed to God's strength rather than his own abilities. It also serves as a reminder of how God can use ordinary objects and individuals to accomplish extraordinary feats. Additionally, the word study of "Ramathlehi" underscores the importance of names and locations in biblical narratives, highlighting the connection between physical landmarks and spiritual truths. Overall, this verse demonstrates the power of God working through willing individuals, even in unexpected ways.

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