Translations
Original
Notes
The Philistines celebrated joyfully, giving all the credit to their god, Dagon. They believed a nation's strength showed the power of its gods.
This last chapter of Samson's complicated history does not involve his role as a judge. Samson abandoned his calling and eventually lost his gifts. Only in his final encounter, when he prayed to the Lord again, did he regain any of his heroic stature.
Samson, who gets more attention in the book of Judges than any other judge, is more mysterious than Jephthah. Samson shows great inspiration as a leader. He also represents the unstoppable move toward chaos, which shows the need for a more organized society under a godly ruler.
Events
People
Dagon: Philistine god whose temple was destroyed by Samson Samson: Israelite judge with great strength from God
Places
Philistia: An ancient people and region in Canaan
Glossary
Dagon Delilah Judges, Book of Philistia, Philistines Samson Tribe of Dan
Topics
Amusements and Worldly Pleasures: Formed a Part of Idolatrous Worship Dagon: An Idol of the Philistines Gaza: Also Called Azzah: A Temple of Dagon, Situated At Gaza: Also Called Azzah: Samson Dies At Idolatry: Idols Mentioned in Scripture: Dagon Idolatry: Philistines Samson is Blinded by the Philistines and Confined to Hard Labor in Prison The Philistines: Character of Idolatrous Worldly Amusements and Pleasures: Formed a Part of Idolatrous Worship