Judges 16:25

Judges 16:25 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

And while their hearts were merry, they said, “Call for Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison to entertain them. And they stationed him between the pillars.

King James Version KJV

And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made them sport: and they set him between the pillars.

American Standard Version ASV

And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison-house; and he made sport before them. And they set him between the pillars:

Bible in Basic English BBE

Now when their hearts were full of joy, they said, Send for Samson to make sport for us. And they sent for Samson out of the prison-house, and he made sport before them; and they put him between the pillars.

Free Bible Version FBV

As they began to get drunk, they shouted, “Summon Samson so he can entertain us!” So they summoned Samson from the prison to entertain them, and made him stand between the two main pillars of the building.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And when their heartes were merie, they said, Call Samson, that he may make vs pastime. So they called Samson out of the prison house, and he was a laughing stocke vnto them, and they set him betweene the pillars.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And it cometh to pass, when their heart [is] glad, that they say, 'Call for Samson, and he doth play before us;' and they call for Samson out of the prison-house, and he playeth before them, and they cause him to stand between the pillars.

World English Bible WEB

When their hearts were merry, they said, “Call for Samson, that he may entertain us.” They called for Samson out of the prison; and he performed before them. They set him between the pillars;

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison-house; and he made them sport: and they set him between the pillars.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And rejoicing in their feasts, when they had now taken their good cheer, they commanded that Samson should be called, and should play before them. And being brought out of prison he played before them, and they made him stand between two pillars.

Translation for Translators T4T

By that time the people were half-drunk. They shouted, “Bring Samson out of the prison! Bring him here so that he can entertain us!” So they brought Samson from the prison and made fun of him. Then they made him stand in the center of the temple. They made him stand between the two pillars that held up the roof.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 16:25

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Judges 16:25 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַֽ/יְהִי֙ כי טוב כְּ/ט֣וֹב לִבָּ֔/ם וַ/יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ קִרְא֥וּ לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֖וֹן וִ/ישַֽׂחֶק לָ֑/נוּ וַ/יִּקְרְא֨וּ לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֜וֹן מִ/בֵּ֣ית ה/אסירים הָ/אֲסוּרִ֗ים וַ/יְצַחֵק֙ לִ/פְנֵי/הֶ֔ם וַ/יַּעֲמִ֥ידוּ אוֹת֖/וֹ בֵּ֥ין הָ/עַמּוּדִֽים

וַֽ/יְהִי֙ hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

כי kîy H3588 for Conj

טוב ṭôwb H2896 pleasant V-Qal-Perf-3ms

כְּ/ט֣וֹב ṭôwb H2896 pleasant Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

לִבָּ֔/ם lêb H3820 heart N-ms | Suff

וַ/יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

קִרְא֥וּ qârâʼ H7121 to call V-Qal-Impv-2mp

לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֖וֹן Shimshôwn H8123 Samson Prep | N-proper

וִ/ישַֽׂחֶק sâchaq H7832 to laugh Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

לָ֑/נוּ Prep | Suff

וַ/יִּקְרְא֨וּ qârâʼ H7121 to call Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֜וֹן Shimshôwn H8123 Samson Prep | N-proper

מִ/בֵּ֣ית bayith H1004 place Prep | N-ms

ה/אסירים ʼâçîyr H615 prisoner Art | N-mp

הָ/אֲסוּרִ֗ים ʼâçar H631 to bind Art | V-Qal-Inf-c

וַ/יְצַחֵק֙ tsâchaq H6711 to laugh Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms

לִ/פְנֵי/הֶ֔ם pânîym H6440 face Prep | N-cp | Suff

וַ/יַּעֲמִ֥ידוּ ʻâmad H5975 to stand Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

אוֹת֖/וֹ ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

בֵּ֥ין bêyn H996 between Prep

הָ/עַמּוּדִֽים ʻammûwd H5982 pillar Art | N-mp

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 16:25

וַֽ/יְהִי֙ hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

כי kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

טוב ṭôwb H2896 "pleasant" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.

Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)

Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.

כְּ/ט֣וֹב ṭôwb H2896 "pleasant" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

לִבָּ֔/ם lêb H3820 "heart" N-ms | Suff

Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.

Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage

Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.

וַ/יֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

קִרְא֥וּ qârâʼ H7121 "to call" V-Qal-Impv-2mp

This Hebrew word means to call out to someone or something, often by name. It's used in many situations, like calling for help or reading aloud. In Genesis, God calls out to Adam in the Garden.

Definition: : call_to/invite/entreat 1) to call, call out, recite, read, cry out, proclaim 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to call, cry, utter a loud sound 1a2) to call unto, cry (for help), call (with name of God) 1a3) to proclaim 1a4) to read aloud, read (to oneself), read 1a5) to summon, invite, call for, call and commission, appoint, call and endow 1a6) to call, name, give name to, call by 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to call oneself 1b2) to be called, be proclaimed, be read aloud, be summoned, be named 1c) (Pual) to be called, be named, be called out, be chosen

Usage: Occurs in 689 OT verses. KJV: bewray (self), that are bidden, call (for, forth, self, upon), cry (unto), (be) famous, guest, invite, mention, (give) name, preach, (make) proclaim(-ation), pronounce, publish, read, renowned, say. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 49:1; Judges 1:26.

לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֖וֹן Shimshôwn H8123 "Samson" Prep | N-proper

Samson, meaning like the sun, was a Danite and a judge of Israel for 20 years. He was a Nazarite for life, and his story is first mentioned in Judges 13:24, where he is described as the son of Manoah.

Definition: A Judge living before Israel's Monarchy, first mentioned at Jdg.13.24; son of: Manoah (H4495); married to Delilah (H1807) Also named: Sampsōn (Σαμψών "Samson" G4546) § Samson = "like the sun" a Danite, son of Manoah, a Nazarite for life, and a judge of Israel for 20 years

Usage: Occurs in 37 OT verses. KJV: Samson. See also: Judges 13:24; Judges 15:16; Judges 16:30.

וִ/ישַֽׂחֶק sâchaq H7832 "to laugh" Conj | V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to laugh, often in contempt or derision, as seen in Genesis 21:9 when Ishmael mocks Isaac. It can also mean to play or make sport, like in Psalm 104:26 where God plays with the whale. In the Bible, it appears over 50 times, including in the book of Job.

Definition: 1) to laugh, play, mock 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to laugh (usually in contempt or derision) 1a2) to sport, play 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make sport 1b2) to jest 1b3) to play (including instrumental music, singing, dancing) 1c) (Hiphil) to laugh mockingly

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: deride, have in derision, laugh, make merry, mock(-er), play, rejoice, (laugh to) scorn, be in (make) sport. See also: Judges 16:25; Psalms 2:4; Psalms 37:13.

לָ֑/נוּ "" Prep | Suff

וַ/יִּקְרְא֨וּ qârâʼ H7121 "to call" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

This Hebrew word means to call out to someone or something, often by name. It's used in many situations, like calling for help or reading aloud. In Genesis, God calls out to Adam in the Garden.

לְ/שִׁמְשׁ֜וֹן Shimshôwn H8123 "Samson" Prep | N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 37 OT verses. KJV: Samson. See also: Judges 13:24; Judges 15:16; Judges 16:30.

מִ/בֵּ֣ית bayith H1004 "place" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.

Definition: nm place, origin, between

Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.

ה/אסירים ʼâçîyr H615 "prisoner" Art | N-mp

This word refers to a prisoner or captive, someone who is bound or restrained. It is used in the Bible to describe people who are held in captivity or slavery.

Definition: prisoner, captive, bondman

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: (those which are) bound, prisoner. See also: Genesis 39:20; Psalms 69:34; Psalms 68:7.

הָ/אֲסוּרִ֗ים ʼâçar H631 "to bind" Art | V-Qal-Inf-c

This word means to bind or tie something, like when God made a covenant with the Israelites. It can also mean to prepare for battle or to be imprisoned. In different contexts, it involves joining or fastening things together, whether physically or metaphorically.

Definition: 1) to tie, bind, imprison 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to tie, bind 1a2) to tie, harness 1a3) to bind (with cords) 1a4) to gird (rare and late) 1a5) to begin the battle, make the attack 1a6) of obligation of oath (figurative) 1b) (Niphal) to be imprisoned, bound 1c) (Pual) to be taken prisoner

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: bind, fast, gird, harness, hold, keep, make ready, order, prepare, prison(-er), put in bonds, set in array, tie. See also: Genesis 39:20; 1 Samuel 6:7; Psalms 105:22.

וַ/יְצַחֵק֙ tsâchaq H6711 "to laugh" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms

To laugh outright in joy or scorn, as seen in Genesis when Abraham laughed at God's promise. It implies a strong emotional response, often translated as 'laugh' or 'mock'.

Definition: 1) to laugh, mock, play 1a) (Qal) to laugh 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to jest 1b2) to sport, play, make sport, toy with, make a toy of

Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: laugh, mock, play, make sport. See also: Genesis 17:17; Genesis 21:9; Judges 16:25.

לִ/פְנֵי/הֶ֔ם pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | N-cp | Suff

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

וַ/יַּעֲמִ֥ידוּ ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.

Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before

Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.

אוֹת֖/וֹ ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

בֵּ֥ין bêyn H996 "between" Prep

Between is the meaning of this preposition, used to show a location or a choice, like either or, as seen in Exodus where it describes the space between two objects.

Definition: : between between, among, in the midst of (with other preps), from between

Usage: Occurs in 248 OT verses. KJV: among, asunder, at, between (-twixt...and), [phrase] from (the widest), [idiom] in, out of, whether (it be...or), within. See also: Genesis 1:4; Joshua 24:7; Psalms 68:14.

הָ/עַמּוּדִֽים ʻammûwd H5982 "pillar" Art | N-mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to a pillar or column, often used as a symbol of strength or support. It can also describe a platform or a stand, like a column of smoke rising into the air. The word is used in various contexts, including architecture and nature.

Definition: 1) pillar, column 1a) pillar 1b) column, upright 1c) column (of smoke)

Usage: Occurs in 84 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] apiece, pillar. See also: Exodus 13:21; 1 Kings 7:3; Psalms 75:4.

Study Notes — Judges 16:25

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Judges 16:25 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Judges 16:25
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 16:25
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 16:25
Trapp's Commentary on Judges 16:25
Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 16:25
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Judges 16:25
Cambridge Bible on Judges 16:25
Barnes' Notes on Judges 16:25
Whedon's Commentary on Judges 16:25
Sermons on Judges 16:25

Context — Samson’s Vengeance and Death

23Now the lords of the Philistines gathered together to offer a great sacrifice to their god Dagon. They rejoiced and said, “Our god has delivered Samson our enemy into our hands.” 24And when the people saw him, they praised their god, saying: “Our god has delivered into our hands our enemy who destroyed our land and multiplied our dead.”

25And while their hearts were merry, they said, “Call for Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison to entertain them. And they stationed him between the pillars.

26Samson said to the servant who held his hand, “Lead me where I can feel the pillars supporting the temple, so I can lean against them.” 27Now the temple was full of men and women; all the lords of the Philistines were there, and about three thousand men and women were on the roof watching Samson entertain them.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 13:28	Now Absalom had ordered his young men, “Watch Amnon until his heart is merry with wine, and when I order you to strike Amnon down, you are to kill him. Do not be afraid. Have I not commanded you? Be courageous and valiant!”
2	Judges 19:6	So they sat down and the two of them ate and drank together. Then the girl’s father said to the man, “Please agree to stay overnight and let your heart be merry.”
3	Judges 9:27	And after they had gone out into the fields, gathered grapes from their vineyards, and trodden them, they held a festival and went into the house of their god; and as they ate and drank, they cursed Abimelech.
4	Proverbs 24:17–18	Do not gloat when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, or the LORD will see and disapprove, and turn His wrath away from him.
5	Daniel 5:2–3	Under the influence of the wine, Belshazzar gave orders to bring in the gold and silver vessels that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, so that the king could drink from them, along with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines. Thus they brought in the gold vessels that had been taken from the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem, and the king drank from them, along with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines.
6	Matthew 27:39–44	And those who passed by heaped abuse on Him, shaking their heads and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross!” In the same way, the chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked Him, saying, “He saved others, but He cannot save Himself. He is the King of Israel! Let Him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in Him. He trusts in God. Let God deliver Him now if He wants Him. For He said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” In the same way, even the robbers who were crucified with Him berated Him.
7	Matthew 26:67–68	Then they spit in His face and struck Him. Others slapped Him and said, “Prophesy to us, Christ! Who hit You?”
8	1 Kings 20:12	Ben-hadad received this message while he and the kings were drinking in their tents, and he said to his servants, “Take your positions.” So they stationed themselves against the city.
9	Matthew 27:29	And they twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on His head. They put a staff in His right hand and knelt down before Him to mock Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!”
10	Job 30:9–10	And now they mock me in song; I have become a byword among them. They abhor me and keep far from me; they do not hesitate to spit in my face.

Judges 16:25 Summary

This verse shows how the Philistines, who were the enemies of God's people, were celebrating their victory over Samson, a judge of Israel, and wanted to humiliate him further by making him entertain them. However, as seen in Judges 16:26-30, God was still at work, even in the midst of Samson's captivity, and He used Samson to ultimately bring down the temple of Dagon and defeat the Philistines. This reminds us that God is always in control, even when things seem darkest, as seen in Psalm 23:4 and Romans 8:28. We can learn from Samson's example to trust in God, even when we are facing difficult circumstances, and to look for ways to use our situations to bring glory to Him, as seen in 1 Corinthians 10:31 and Colossians 3:17.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Philistines want Samson to entertain them?

The Philistines wanted Samson to entertain them because they were celebrating their perceived victory over him, as seen in Judges 16:23-24, and they wanted to humiliate him further by making him perform for them, much like the way King Nebuchadnezzar used the prophet Daniel to interpret his dreams in Daniel 2:1-49.

What is the significance of the pillars in this verse?

The pillars in this verse are likely the central support pillars of the temple of Dagon, and Samson's request to be led to them in Judges 16:26 suggests that he has a plan to use them to his advantage, possibly to exact revenge on the Philistines, similar to the way God used the walls of Jericho to bring down the city in Joshua 6:20.

How does this verse relate to the rest of the story of Samson?

This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Samson, as it sets the stage for his final act of revenge against the Philistines, which is reminiscent of the way God used Esther to save the Israelites from persecution in Esther 4:1-5:8, and it ultimately leads to his death, as prophesied in Judges 13:5.

What can we learn from the Philistines' actions in this verse?

The Philistines' actions in this verse demonstrate the dangers of pride and arrogance, as they are celebrating their perceived victory over Samson without realizing that God is still at work, much like the way the Egyptians and Pharaoh were punished for their hardness of heart in Exodus 4:21-23 and Exodus 14:1-31.

Reflection Questions

How do I respond when I am in a situation where I am being humiliated or mocked, like Samson was in this verse?
What are some ways that I can use my circumstances, no matter how difficult they may seem, to bring glory to God, as Samson did in this story?
How can I avoid falling into the trap of pride and arrogance, like the Philistines did in this verse, and instead cultivate a humble and trusting heart, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 37:3-7?
What does this verse teach me about the importance of perseverance and trust in God, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, as seen in Romans 5:3-5 and 2 Corinthians 1:3-4?

Gill's Exposition on Judges 16:25

And it came to pass when their hearts were merry,.... With wine, for which Gaza is famous in many writers (w); with eating and drinking, dancing, and music; for it was usual for the Heathens to feast

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 16:25

And when the people saw him, they praised their god: for they said, Our god hath delivered into our hands our enemy, and the destroyer of our country, which slew many of us. No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Judges 16:25

He made them sport; either, first, Passively, being made by them the matter of their sport and derision, and of many bitter scoffs, and other indignities or injuries; or, secondly Actively, by some ridiculous actions, or some proofs of more than ordinary strength yet remaining in him, like the ruins of a great and goodly building; whereby he halted them asleep in security, until by this seeming complaisance he prepared the way for that which he designed; otherwise his generous soul would never have been forced to make them sport, save in order to their destruction.

Trapp's Commentary on Judges 16:25

Judges 16:25 And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he made them sport: and they set him between the pillars.Ver. 25. Call for Samson, that he may make us sport.] At feasts they had their γελωτοποιοι, such as made them merry. The Emperors of Rome presented the people with strange sights, as of lions, bears, panthers, tigers, &c., to exhilarate them: they also led their enemies before them in triumph: which Cleopatra not able to endure, killed herself: So did not Samson, but became the subject of his enemies’ scorn and malice, as did likewise Christ. And they set him between the pillars.] Where he might best be seen: but God had a holy hand in it, for a further mischief unto them.

Ellicott's Commentary on Judges 16:25

(25) When their hearts were merry.—Comp. Judges 9:27; 1 Samuel 25:36; Esther 1:10. That he may make us sport.—Whether by his forced jests, or by feats of strength, or merely by being made to submit to insults, we cannot tell. Josephus says that they sent for Samson “that they might insult him over their wine.” He made them sport.—The LXX says (Cod. B), “And he played before them, and they beat him with rods.”

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Judges 16:25

Verse 25. Call for Samson, that he may make us sport] What the sport was we cannot tell; probably it was an exhibition of his prodigious strength. This seems to be intimated by what is said, Judges 16:22, of the restoration of his hair; and the exertions he was obliged to make will account for the weariness which gave him the pretence to ask for leave to lean against the pillars. Some think he was brought out to be a laughing-stock, and that he was variously insulted by the Philistines; hence the version of the Septuagint: καιερραπιζοναυτον, and they buffeted him. Josephus, Antiq. Jud. lib. v., cap. 8, s. 12, says: He was brought out, ὁπωςενυβρισωσιναυτονπαρατονποτον, that they might insult him in their cups.

Cambridge Bible on Judges 16:25

25. he made sport before them] in the court, we may suppose, in front of the house, i.e. the temple of Dagon. When the sport was over, Samson was set among the pillars of the open hall or porch of the temple, where the crowd could satisfy their curiosity by a nearer view.

Barnes' Notes on Judges 16:25

That he may make us sport - Rather, “that he may play for us,” i. e. dance and make music. At an idolatrous feast, dancing was always accompanied with vocal and instrumental music.

Whedon's Commentary on Judges 16:25

25. When their hearts were merry — By songs and dances, eating and drinking. “They were in high spirits over a victory for which they had not fought.” — Cassel.

Sermons on Judges 16:25

	Sermon	Description
	(2 Samuel) Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom by David Guzik	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the tragic events that unfolded in Israel when Absalom, the son of King David, sought revenge for the violation of his sister Tamar. Absalom
	He Carried Out Thence All the Treasures by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer reflects on the deportation of treasures from the House of the Lord, emphasizing the significance of the sacred vessels taken to Babylon and later restored. He draws par
	Evil Men in the Plan of God by Carter Conlon	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and desiring Jesus above all else. He discusses the upcoming difficult days that the world will face and reminds th
	(The Life of Jesus) His Crucifixion by Earle Maxwell	In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of receiving a late-night phone call from a distressed woman whose husband was in the intensive care ward. This experience
	Silence the Mocking Voices by Shane Idleman	This sermon emphasizes the impact of mocking voices that can lead to discouragement and distraction from God's will. It delves into the mocking of Jesus and the importance of surre
	Destined for the Cross by Paul E. Billheimer	Paul E. Billheimer preaches on the foundational principle of self-sacrifice in the universe, exemplified by Christ's choice to stay on the cross despite temptations to come down an
	Exposition on Psalm 22 by St. Augustine	St. Augustine preaches on Psalm 21, reflecting on the words spoken by Jesus Christ Himself during His resurrection. The psalm portrays the suffering and humility of Christ, from be