Book of Judges - Chapter 15 - Verse 13
Meaning
In this verse, we see a group of men plotting against a man named Samson. The men did not intend to kill him but planned to bind him and deliver him into their hands. This act of binding Samson with two new cords symbolizes the betrayal and deceit he faced from those around him. Despite their intentions not to kill him, Samson's enemies were still determined to harm him in some way. The rock mentioned in the verse could represent a place of vulnerability or a place where Samson was isolated and trapped. This verse serves as a reminder that even when others may not have deadly intentions towards us, they can still harm us in different ways. It also highlights the themes of betrayal, manipulation, and deceit that are prevalent throughout the biblical narratives.
Theological Overview
On a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's binding and delivery into the hands of his enemies for crucifixion. The act of binding Samson with two new cords parallels the binding of Jesus prior to his crucifixion. The intention of the men not to kill Samson but to deliver him into the hands of the Philistines echoes the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, who delivered him into the hands of the Roman authorities. The similarities between Samson's situation here and Jesus' eventual crucifixion highlight the theme of sacrifice and the fulfillment of God's will through suffering.