Samson: A Story from Ancient Israel

Birth and Early Life

• Special Boy: Samson was born to a woman who had previously been unable to have children.
• Divine Message: An angel told Samson's mother she would have a son dedicated to God.
• Nazirite Vow: Samson was to be a Nazirite—one rule: never cut his hair, which was the source of his strength.

Samson's Incredible Strength

• First Feat: Samson killed a lion with his bare hands, demonstrating his supernatural strength.
• Battles with Philistines: Frequently fought against the Philistines, the oppressors of the Israelites.
• Jawbone Battle: In one fight, he used a donkey's jawbone to defeat a thousand Philistine soldiers.

The Downfall: Delilah

• Love for Delilah: Fell deeply in love with Delilah.
• Betrayal: Delilah was used by the Philistines to discover the secret of Samson's strength.
• Revealing the Secret: Samson told Delilah about his hair; if cut, he would lose his strength.
• Capture: Delilah cut his hair while he slept, enabling the Philistines to capture him. They blinded him and imprisoned him.

Redemption and Final Act

• Regaining Strength: While in prison, Samson's hair grew back, and so did his strength.
• Last Prayer and Strength: During a public gathering in a Philistine temple, he prayed to God for strength one final time.
• Final Act: Pushed down the temple pillars, collapsing the building and killing many Philistines along with himself.

Moral of the Story

• Consequences of Choices: Samson's life teaches about the impact of our decisions.
• God's Unfailing Strength: Highlights God's strength and support, even in our weakest moments.