Judges 14:6

Judges 14:6 Meaning and Explanation

And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.

King James Version (KJV)

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The Spirit of the LORD empowers Samson to tear the lion apart with his bare hands, yet he keeps it to himself.

What Does Judges 14:6 Mean?

At the moment of danger the Spirit of the LORD rushes mightily upon Samson, and he tears the lion apart as easily as one might tear a young goat, with nothing in his hand. Then, surprisingly, he tells no one what has happened.

The verse locates Samson's strength where it truly lies: not in his own muscle but in the Spirit of the LORD coming upon him. The feat is real, but it is a gift. His silence is curious, perhaps shielding the secret of his power, perhaps simply a private wonder. The scene quietly teaches that whatever strength we are given to meet the lions of our lives is a strength bestowed from above, and is best held with humility rather than display.

Judges 14:6 in the Original Language

rent (שָׁסַע) -- to split or tear apart, conveying the completeness of the lion's undoing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Judges 14:6

What does Judges 14:6 mean?

The Spirit of the LORD empowers Samson to tear the lion apart with his bare hands, yet he keeps it to himself.

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