Samson's Companions: A Biblical Paradox?
In this article, you will learn how Judges 14:11 contradicts Proverbs 13:20, 2 Corinthians 6:14, Psalm 1:1, James 4:4 and Proverbs 4:14. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
Samson's story in Judges 14:11 presents a curious situation where he is surrounded by thirty Philistine men for his wedding celebration. For many Christians, this scene might suggest how God's plan unfolds in unexpected ways. Yet, when juxtaposed with other biblical teachings, several contradictions emerge that challenge the harmony of Samson's narrative with broader Biblical wisdom.
Firstly, consider Proverbs 13:20, which emphasizes the value of walking with the wise to become wise oneself. The Philistine men chosen to accompany Samson do not align with the Israelites' standards of wisdom. Their presence raises questions about the nature of the counsel surrounding Samson—was it truly wise by godly standards? This evokes imagery of a student learning from a teacher but finding themselves in a classroom with distracted peers instead.
Further complicating matters, 2 Corinthians 6:14 cautions against being yoked with unbelievers. Samson’s close interactions with those who did not share his faith seem to contradict this advice. It's like mixing oil and water; while they may be in the same container, they do not naturally blend.
Psalm 1:1 points to happiness derived from avoiding the counsel of the wicked, yet here is Samson, fully immersed in Philistine society. Similarly, James 4:4 warns against friendship with the world, equating it with enmity towards God. Yet, it appears Samson's interactions with the Philistines positioned him contrary to this principle.
Lastly, Proverbs 4:14 advises against setting foot on the path of the wicked, another stark contrast to Samson’s company at his wedding. It's a bit like a traveler advised to avoid treacherous roads but embarking on one nonetheless.
These verses collectively raise intriguing questions about Samson's journey and the role of divine sovereignty in seemingly contradictory circumstances. How can these contradictions inform our understanding of faith and wisdom in our own lives?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 14:11 | And it came to pass, when they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to be with him. |
| 2. | Proverbs 13:20 | He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. [destroyed: Heb. broken] |
| 3. | 2 Corinthians 6:14 | Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? |
| 4. | Psalm 1:1 | Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. [ungodly: or, wicked] |
| 5. | James 4:4 | Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. |
| 6. | Proverbs 4:14 | Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil [men]. |