Book of Judges - Chapter 16 - Verse 20

Located in the Book of Judges in the Old Testament, this verse tells the story of Samson, a powerful judge chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines. In this particular passage, Samson's hair has been cut by Delilah while he was sleeping, compromising his strength and connection to God. When he wakes up to realize the Philistines are upon him, he tries to fight them off as he had done before, not realizing that God's presence and power had departed from him due to his disobedience. This moment serves as a warning about the consequences of straying from God's will and the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with Him. It demonstrates the significance of obedience and faithfulness in order to experience God's protection and guidance in our lives. The story of Samson highlights the dangers of relying solely on our own strength and abilities without acknowledging God's role in our victories.

When examining the theological interpretation of Judges 16:20, it is essential to delve into the profound lesson it teaches about the consequences of sin and disobedience. In this verse, we witness Samson, a mighty judge of Israel, falling prey to temptation and losing the strength given to him by the Lord. The words "And he wist not that the LORD was departed from him" serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to God. Samson's tragic story demonstrates the destructive nature of sin and highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and redemption. The theological significance of this verse lies in its powerful message about the consequences of straying from God's path and the need for repentance to restore one's relationship with the Lord.