Samson's birth was a phenomenon in and of itself. Before his birth, Samson's mother knew that her son would be special because a man of God told her that he would be called to live a life of separation, known as the Nazarite vow (Judges 13.7). This vow could be remitted at any time (Num. 6.13), but it seems that in Samuel and Samson's case it was a lifelong commitment. The Nazarite vow was a special vow of separation one could take for the Lord. It forbid a razor from cutting the hair and it called for abstinence from anything associated with the vine.
Knowing that he must live a life of separation from fruit of the vine, it is ironic that he seeks Delilah in 16.4. There are two things that should have been an indication to Samson that she was trouble. First of all, Samson found her in the valley of Sorek. At first this may seem innocent, but a quick definition of Sorek will reveal that it means "grapes." For a man committed to the Nazarite vow, a valley of grapes was the last place he needed to be. Second, her name means something to the effect "one that tastes good" or "dainty one." Samson fell in love with the "dainty one" who lived in the valley of grapes. This had temptation written all over it from the beginning.
As is still true today, be careful where you look to find your love!
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1 comment:
Great post!
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