MPV Commentary

16. She continued to press him with her words daily--Though disappointed and mortified, this vile woman was determined to wear him down through a relentless barrage of flattery and persuasion.

17. If I am shaved, then my strength will leave me--Samson's incredible powers did not come from his hair, but from his unique relationship with God as a Nazarite. His uncut locks were a sign of his commitment to God and a guarantee that He would continue to empower him.

19. She called for a man and had him shave off the seven locks of his head--It's unclear whether the ancient Hebrews cut their hair in the same way as people do today, but it's possible they used scissors rather than a razor.

20. He was unaware that the Lord had withdrawn from him--What a tragic sight! Samson was now devoid of God's presence and power, his character degraded by his own sinful choices, yet still oblivious to the depths of his fallen state.

Jud 16:21, 22. The Philistines Took Him and Put Out His Eyes.

21. The Philistines took him captive and gouged out his eyes--In ancient times, prisoners of high social status were often subjected to this brutal punishment. It could be done in various ways, including scooping out the eyeballs or piercing them with a hot iron. To ensure Samson's complete subjugation, he was also bound with heavy copper fetters.

22. He was forced to grind grain in prison--This menial task was considered a deep humiliation for someone of Samson's stature. The Philistines wanted to break his spirit completely.

23. However, his hair began to grow back again--It seems that Samson had finally come to his senses and repented of his actions. He may have renewed his Nazarite vow, and as he did so, God began to restore his strength and power.