Judges 16:2

KJV

[And it was told] the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed [him] in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it was told the Gazites {H5841}, saying {H559}, Samson {H8123} is come {H935} hither. And they compassed him in {H5437}, and laid wait {H693} for him all night {H3915} in the gate {H8179} of the city {H5892}, and were quiet {H2790} all the night {H3915}, saying {H559}, In the morning {H1242}, when it is day {H216}, we shall kill {H2026} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

The people in 'Azah were told that Shimshon had come, so they surrounded the place where he was and also set an ambush for him all night at the city gate. Their plan was to do nothing at night, but to wait until morning and then kill him.

Berean Standard Bible

When the Gazites heard that Samson was there, they surrounded that place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They were quiet throughout the night, saying, “Let us wait until dawn; then we will kill him.”

American Standard Version

And it was told the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither. And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city, and were quiet all the night, saying, Let be till morning light, then we will kill him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 16:2 details a critical moment for Samson, the Israelite judge, upon his arrival in Gaza, a formidable Philistine stronghold. His presence is immediately reported to the Gazites, who, recognizing him as a dangerous adversary, swiftly devise a plan to eliminate him. They strategically surround the city gate, laying a silent ambush throughout the night, fully intending to kill him as soon as daylight breaks. This verse vividly portrays the intense peril Samson faces due to his reckless choices and the relentless malice of Israel's enemies.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the latter part of Samson's narrative (Judges 13-16), which itself is a distinct segment within the larger Book of Judges. The Book of Judges chronicles Israel's cyclical pattern of apostasy, oppression, cries for deliverance, and God raising up judges. Samson's story, however, often deviates from the typical judge narrative, highlighting his personal flaws and impulsive behavior alongside his divinely endowed strength. Judges 16:2 immediately follows Samson's entry into Gaza to visit a prostitute ([Judges 16:1](/judges/16-1 "Judges 16:1 - Samson's Visit to Gaza")), setting the stage for his miraculous escape in the very next verse ([Judges 16:3](/judges/16-3 "Judges 16:3 - Samson's Escape from Gaza")). It underscores the constant state of conflict between Israel and the Philistines, a dominant theme throughout this section of Judges, and serves as another instance where Samson's personal desires lead him into grave danger.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Philistines were a powerful, technologically advanced people who occupied the southwestern coastal plain of Canaan, establishing a confederacy of five major cities: Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath. Gaza, in particular, was a strategically vital city due known for its formidable fortifications and its position on the Via Maris, a crucial trade route. During the period of the Judges, the Philistines were a primary oppressor of Israel, as indicated in [Judges 13:1](/judges/13-1 "Judges 13:1 - Philistine Oppression"). The "gate of the city" was far more than a simple entrance; it was a complex, fortified structure, often serving as the administrative, judicial, and commercial hub of the city. It was the most vulnerable point in a city's defenses but also the most controlled. Laying wait "all night in the gate" was a calculated military tactic, ensuring that Samson, if he attempted to leave, would be trapped when the gates were opened at dawn, as they would have been locked and guarded throughout the night.

* **Key Themes:** Judges 16:2 powerfully contributes to several key themes within Samson's narrative and the wider Book of Judges. Firstly, it highlights the **vulnerability despite strength**; despite Samson's unparalleled physical power, his repeated moral compromises and reckless choices, particularly concerning relationships with Philistine women, consistently place him in perilous situations. This verse starkly illustrates how even divinely gifted individuals can be ensnared by their own undisciplined desires, a theme echoed throughout [Samson's life](/judges/14 "Judges 14 - Samson's Marriage and Riddle"). Secondly, it showcases the **enemy's vigilance and malice**. The Gazites' swift, organized, and silent ambush demonstrates the cunning and relentless nature of an adversary determined to eliminate a perceived threat. Their cold-blooded declaration, "In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him," reveals their deep-seated hostility and calculated intent. Lastly, the verse underscores the **consequences of reckless behavior**. Samson's presence in Gaza was a direct result of his personal indulgence ([Judges 16:1](/judges/16-1 "Judges 16:1 - Samson's Entry into Gaza")), leading him into a situation of extreme peril and serving as a stark reminder that unwise choices often lead to severe repercussions, even for those under God's anointing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **compassed him in (Hebrew, _sābab'_):** This verb means "to surround," "to encircle," or "to go around." In this context, it emphasizes the completeness and tightness of the Gazites' encirclement, indicating that Samson was fully trapped or hemmed in. It conveys a sense of being enclosed with no apparent escape route.
* **laid wait (Hebrew, _ʾārab'_):** This term specifically denotes "to lie in ambush," "to set an ambush," or "to lurk." It implies a deliberate, hidden, and premeditated plan to surprise, capture, or harm someone. The Gazites' action was not spontaneous but a calculated military maneuver.
* **were quiet (Hebrew, _ḥāraš'_):** Meaning "to be silent," "to keep quiet," or "to be deaf." Here, it highlights the stealth and discipline of the Gazites. Their silence was crucial for the success of their ambush, ensuring Samson remained unaware of their presence and intentions throughout the night, preventing him from being alerted to the danger.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it was told the Gazites, saying, Samson is come hither."**: This opening clause indicates the swift and efficient intelligence network of the Philistines. Samson's notoriety as Israel's strongman and a frequent adversary meant his presence in a major Philistine city would immediately be reported, signaling him as a high-value target.
* **"And they compassed him in, and laid wait for him all night in the gate of the city,"**: This describes the Gazites' immediate and strategic response. They did not hesitate but acted decisively to contain and trap Samson. The choice of the city gate, a choke point and the only controlled exit, reveals their tactical acumen. The all-night vigil demonstrates their patience and determination to ensure Samson could not escape undetected, especially when the gates would be opened at dawn.
* **"and were quiet all the night, saying, In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him."**: This final segment underscores the chilling resolve and malice of the Gazites. Their silence throughout the night was a disciplined act of stealth, preventing Samson from being forewarned. Their spoken intent, though only among themselves, reveals their cold-blooded confidence in their plan and their absolute determination to execute Samson at the first opportunity of daylight, when the city gates would be unbarred.

#### Literary Devices
Judges 16:2 employs several literary devices to heighten its dramatic impact. **Suspense** is masterfully built through the description of the all-night wait and the Gazites' quiet determination, leaving the reader to wonder how Samson will escape this seemingly inescapable trap. The verse also utilizes **foreshadowing**, as the Gazites' declaration, "In the morning, when it is day, we shall kill him," ominously hints at Samson's eventual death in Gaza, though not by their hand in this immediate instance. There is an element of **irony** present: Samson, the mighty deliverer of Israel, is himself trapped and vulnerable, highlighting the paradoxical nature of his strength coupled with his moral weakness. Furthermore, the narrative employs **contrast** between Samson's reckless and impulsive entry into Gaza and the Gazites' calculated, patient, and disciplined ambush, emphasizing the stark difference in their approaches.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 16:2 serves as a powerful reminder of the constant spiritual warfare believers face and the consequences of compromising one's walk with God. Samson, despite being divinely gifted and called as a deliverer, repeatedly placed himself in situations of extreme spiritual and physical danger due to his unbridled desires and lack of self-control. This verse highlights that even those with great spiritual strength can become vulnerable when they disregard wisdom and discernment, allowing themselves to be lured into the enemy's territory. The Gazites' patient, silent, and malicious ambush serves as an apt metaphor for the vigilance of spiritual adversaries, who lie in wait for opportune moments to ensnare or destroy. It underscores the biblical truth that our enemies are cunning and relentless, requiring believers to maintain constant spiritual vigilance and reliance on God's protection, rather than their own strength or perceived invincibility.

* [Judges 16:3](/judges/16-3 "Judges 16:3 - Samson's Miraculous Escape")
* [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - Be Sober, Be Vigilant")
* [Proverbs 13:15](/proverbs/13-15 "Proverbs 13:15 - The Way of Transgressors is Hard")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Judges 16:2 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Samson's story is a cautionary tale, illustrating that divine gifting does not automatically equate to spiritual maturity or immunity from temptation. His repeated disregard for the dangers inherent in his environment and his choices, driven by personal desires rather than divine wisdom, consistently led him into perilous situations. This should prompt us to critically examine our own lives: Are we, like Samson, carelessly wandering into "Gazas" – places, relationships, or habits that compromise our spiritual integrity and open us up to attack? The Gazites' patient and silent ambush serves as a stark reminder of the vigilance of our spiritual adversaries, who often operate subtly, waiting for moments of weakness, complacency, or compromise. This calls us to cultivate constant spiritual awareness, discernment, and self-control, recognizing that true strength lies not in our own abilities, but in our unwavering dependence on God and adherence to His Word. We must be sober-minded and vigilant, understanding that the enemy seeks to devour, and our choices have real consequences.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what "Gazas" in my life might I be carelessly placing myself, despite knowing the risks?**
* **How vigilant am I against the subtle and patient tactics of spiritual adversaries in my daily life?**
* **What specific areas of compromise or undisciplined desires might be making me vulnerable to spiritual attack?**
* **How can I cultivate greater spiritual discernment and rely more fully on God's wisdom rather than my own perceived strength?**

### FAQ

**Why did Samson go to Gaza, a Philistine city, given his role as a judge against them?**

Answer: Samson's decision to go to Gaza, a major Philistine stronghold, was driven by his personal desires rather than his divine calling. [Judges 16:1](/judges/16-1 "Judges 16:1 - Samson's Visit to a Prostitute") explicitly states he went there to visit a prostitute. This act highlights Samson's recurring pattern of being led by his lusts and impulses, often putting himself in direct opposition to his Nazirite vows and the dangers of associating with Israel's enemies. His actions here demonstrate a profound lack of discernment and self-control, despite his extraordinary strength and divine anointing.

**What was the significance of the "gate of the city" in this context?**

Answer: The "gate of the city" was a highly significant architectural and social feature in ancient cities, far more than just an entrance. It was the most fortified part of the city, serving as a defensive choke point, a place for legal proceedings, commerce, and public gatherings. For the Gazites, laying wait at the city gate all night was a strategic masterstroke. It was the only controlled exit from the city, and by ambushing it, they ensured Samson would be trapped when the gates were opened at dawn, making his escape virtually impossible under normal circumstances. It represented the point of maximum vulnerability and control.

**How did the Gazites know Samson was in Gaza, and why were they so intent on killing him?**

Answer: Samson was a highly notorious figure, known for his immense strength and his repeated acts of defiance against the Philistines, including killing many of them ([Judges 15:15](/judges/15-15 "Judges 15:15 - Samson's Slaughter of Philistines")). His presence in a major Philistine city like Gaza would have been quickly reported by informants or observant citizens. The Philistines viewed him as a significant threat and a symbol of Israelite resistance. Their intent to kill him was driven by deep-seated animosity, a desire for revenge, and the strategic goal of eliminating a formidable enemy who had caused them considerable harm, ensuring their dominance over Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Samson, despite his profound flaws, serves as a type of Christ in his role as a deliverer, albeit a deeply imperfect one. Judges 16:2, depicting Samson's entrapment and the enemy's intent to kill him, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate confrontation between the true Deliverer and the forces of darkness. Just as the Gazites lay in wait for Samson at the city gate, so too did the powers of sin and death conspire to ensnare Jesus, culminating in His crucifixion. However, unlike Samson, whose escape from the Gazites was a display of physical power, Christ's victory was achieved through His perfect obedience and sacrificial death. His resurrection, triumphing over the "gates of hell" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades Shall Not Prevail")), is the ultimate fulfillment of Samson's symbolic act of tearing away the city gates of Gaza ([Judges 16:3](/judges/16-3 "Judges 16:3 - Samson Carries Off the Gates")). Where Samson's strength was physical and often misused, Christ's power is spiritual and redemptive, delivering humanity not from Philistine oppression, but from the bondage of sin and death itself ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). Thus, Samson's perilous night in Gaza, and his subsequent escape, points forward to the perfect Lamb of God who, though seemingly trapped by His enemies, ultimately broke the power of death and opened the way to eternal life for all who believe ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 23:26

And Saul went on this side of the mountain, and David and his men on that side of the mountain: and David made haste to get away for fear of Saul; for Saul and his men compassed David and his men round about to take them.

Psalms 118:10

All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the LORD will I destroy them.

Psalms 118:12

They compassed me about like bees; they are quenched as the fire of thorns: for in the name of the LORD I will destroy them.

Acts 9:24

But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.

Matthew 21:38

But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.

Judges 15:18

¶ And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised?

1 Samuel 19:11

¶ Saul also sent messengers unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David's wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain.