The Greek word Sampsṓn, represented by G4546, is of Hebrew origin and refers to Sampson (i.e. Shimshon), an Israelite. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text, marking its specific and singular use in the Greek scriptures.
The sole appearance of Sampsṓn G4546 is in Hebrews 11:32. In this verse, the author poses a question, "And what more shall I say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets". Here, Samson is listed among a group of prominent Israelites whose stories are presented as noteworthy examples.
The context of Hebrews 11:32 links Samson G4546 with several other important figures from Israel's history:
- G1066 Gedeṓn: Gedeon (i.e. Gid(e)on), an Israelite.
- G913 Barák: Barak, an Israelite.
- G2422 Iephtháe: Jephthaë (i.e. Jiphtach), an Israelite.
- G1138 Dabíd: Dabid (i.e. David), the Israelite king.
- G4545 Samouḗl: Samuel (i.e. Shemuel), an Israelite.
- G4396 prophḗtēs: a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker.
The theological weight of G4546 is derived entirely from its inclusion in this specific list. By being named in Hebrews 11:32, the narrative elevates Samson to a position of significance.
- An Exemplary Figure: Samson is presented as part of a collective group whose stories are worth telling. He is placed in the same context as Gedeon G1066, Barak G913, and Jephthae G2422.
- Association with Kings and Prophets: His name appears alongside Dabíd G1138, an Israelite king, and Samouḗl G4545, who is identified as a prophet Acts 13:20. This association frames Samson as a historically significant individual.
In summary, Sampsṓn G4546 is a specific reference to the Israelite figure Samson. While it appears only once, its placement in Hebrews 11:32 is highly significant. The term serves to include Samson in a distinguished list of individuals, alongside kings and prophets, whose accounts are presented as important within the biblical narrative.
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