of Hebrew origin (שִׁמְשׁוֹן); Sampson (i.e. Shimshon), an Israelite:--Samson.
Transliteration:Sampsṓn
Pronunciation:samp-sone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Σαμψών (Sampsṓn), transliterated as Samson, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name שִׁמְשׁוֹן (Shimshon). The Hebrew name is derived from the root שֶׁמֶשׁ (shemesh), meaning "sun" (`{{H8121}}`). Thus, the name Samson likely conveys the meaning "sun-like," "of the sun," or potentially "little sun." As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed to refer to the specific individual, the renowned judge of Israel. The underlying etymology, however, hints at a radiant or prominent character, though his life story reveals a complex interplay of divine power and human frailty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek form Σαμψών (Sampsṓn) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Hebrews 11:32]]. This occurrence is within the illustrious "Hall of Faith," a chapter dedicated to recounting the lives of Old Testament figures who exemplified faith. The author of Hebrews lists Samson alongside other judges and prophets such as Gideon (`{{G1045}}`), Barak (`{{G914}}`), Jephthah (`{{G2496}}`), David, and Samuel. The verse states that these individuals "through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions."
This inclusion is particularly striking given the numerous moral failings and impulsive actions that characterize Samson's narrative in the Book of Judges. His life was marked by a series of unconventional and often problematic choices, yet the author of Hebrews elects to highlight his faith. This suggests that the focus is not on his perfect obedience or moral purity, but on his ultimate reliance on God's strength and his final act of faith in calling upon the Lord for power to deliver Israel from the Philistines ([[Judges 16:28-30]]). The context in Hebrews emphasizes that faith, even amidst significant human weakness, is what God honors and uses for His purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew original, שִׁמְשׁוֹן (Shimshon), found throughout the Book of Judges (chapters 13-16). The root word שֶׁמֶשׁ (shemesh, `{{H8121}}`), meaning "sun," provides the etymological basis for the name.
Key concepts associated with Samson include:
* **Nazarite Vow:** Samson was consecrated as a Nazarite from birth ([[Judges 13:5]]), a vow requiring abstinence from wine, not cutting hair, and avoiding contact with dead bodies ([[Numbers 6:1-21]]). His strength was inextricably linked to his uncut hair, a symbol of his dedication to God.
* **Spirit of the Lord:** His miraculous strength was not inherent but a direct result of the "Spirit of the Lord" coming upon him ([[Judges 13:25]], [[Judges 14:6]], [[Judges 14:19]], [[Judges 15:14]]). This highlights divine empowerment as the source of his capabilities.
* **Judge/Deliverer:** Samson served as one of the judges of Israel, raised up by God to deliver His people from Philistine oppression ([[Judges 13:5]]). His acts of destruction against the Philistines, though often motivated by personal revenge, ultimately served God's redemptive plan for Israel.
### Theological Significance
Samson's inclusion in the "Hall of Faith" in [[Hebrews 11]] is profoundly significant for understanding the nature of biblical faith and God's grace. Despite a life replete with moral compromises, impulsive decisions, and a repeated failure to uphold his Nazarite vow, Samson is commended for his faith. This underscores several theological truths:
* **Faith is not Flawless Perfection:** God's commendation of faith does not imply human perfection. Samson's story demonstrates that genuine faith can coexist with significant personal failings. It is the direction of one's heart towards God, particularly in moments of ultimate reliance, that matters.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Human Agency:** God used Samson, a deeply flawed individual, to accomplish His sovereign purposes for Israel. This illustrates God's ability to work through imperfect vessels to fulfill His plan, highlighting His faithfulness even when His servants are unfaithful.
* **The Paradox of Grace:** Samson's narrative is a powerful testament to the paradox of grace. His supernatural strength was a gift, not earned, and his ultimate victory came through a final act of desperate faith, acknowledging his dependence on God. His death, while tragic, was also a redemptive act that brought greater deliverance to Israel than his life had achieved.
* **Prefigurement of Christ (Limited):** While Samson's character is a stark contrast to Christ's, he serves as a type of deliverer who, through suffering and self-sacrifice, brought salvation to his people. His unique birth and divine empowerment also echo aspects of Christ's identity.
### Summary
Σαμψών (Sampsṓn) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Shimshon, meaning "sun-like" or "of the sun." It refers to the well-known judge of Israel, whose story is found in Judges 13-16. In the New Testament, the name appears exclusively in [[Hebrews 11:32]], where Samson is listed among the heroes of faith. This inclusion is highly significant, as it highlights God's recognition of Samson's faith despite his numerous moral failures and personal struggles. His life exemplifies divine empowerment through the Spirit of the Lord and underscores the theological truth that God uses imperfect individuals to accomplish His sovereign will. Samson's story ultimately serves as a powerful testament to the nature of faith, the paradox of God's grace, and His unwavering commitment to deliver His people.
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