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Book of Judges - Chapter 16 - Verse 11

16:11
And he said unto her, If they bind me fast with new ropes that never were occupied, then shall I be weak, and be as another man.

Meaning

When Samson made this statement to Delilah, he was revealing that his strength actually came from his relationship with God. The new ropes symbolize a lack of spiritual connection, which would render him vulnerable and powerless. Samson understood that his strength was not solely a physical attribute, but rather a gift from God that was contingent upon his obedience and faithfulness. By telling Delilah about the source of his strength, Samson was ultimately demonstrating the importance of staying true to one's beliefs and convictions in order to receive blessings and protection from God. This verse serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness.

Theological Overview

When considering the theological interpretation of the verse from Judges 16:11, it is essential to delve into the symbolic meaning behind Samson's request for new ropes that have never been used. Samson, known for his physical strength given to him by God, is seen here acknowledging his vulnerability when tied with new, untested ropes. This vulnerability can be seen as a reminder of the limitations of human strength and the importance of relying on God's power instead. By mentioning that he would be weak and powerless like any other man when bound with these new ropes, Samson's words serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and self-reliance. This verse invites readers to reflect on the concept of strength in weakness and to consider the significance of trusting in divine strength rather than one's own abilities. Through this interpretation, the verse offers a valuable lesson on humility and dependence on God in times of vulnerability.

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