The Battle of Secrets: A Cautionary Tale from Samson and Delilah
In this article, you will learn how Judges 16:18 contradicts Proverbs 7:21, Proverbs 14:15, Proverbs 3:7, Isaiah 5:21, 2 Timothy 3:6, Matthew 10:16, Proverbs 11:13, Proverbs 25:9, Proverbs 4:23 and Proverbs 10:14. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The story of Samson and Delilah in Judges 16:18 is dramatic and tragic, portraying the mighty Samson's downfall through persuasion and betrayal. It shows Delilah, a cunning woman, convincing Samson to reveal the secret of his strength. For her treachery, she was rewarded with money by the Philistine leaders. However, this narrative starkly contrasts with the wisdom literature found in other parts of the Bible, unraveling a web of contradictions and wise counsel that could have altered Samson's fate.
Consider Proverbs 7:21 and Proverbs 14:15, which caution against yielding to persuasive words and highlight the folly of naivety. Samson, despite his strength, trusted Delilah’s convincing words—an act contrary to these proverbs, which advocate for wisdom and discernment in relationships.
Proverbs 3:7 and Isaiah 5:21 advise against self-reliance and overconfidence. Samson, confident in his invincibility, ignored these warnings, trusting his judgments rather than seeking wisdom and caution.
2 Timothy 3:6 emphasizes the danger of being swayed by deceitful people, a warning Samson failed to heed. Similarly, Matthew 10:16 encourages believers to be shrewd and wary—a strategic approach that Samson, in his blindness, neglected to adopt.
Further deepening the contradiction, Proverbs 11:13 and Proverbs 25:9 value discretion and the secrecy of important matters. Samson’s willingness to disclose his secret to Delilah without foresight exposes his imprudence.
Lastly, Proverbs 4:23 stresses the importance of guarding one’s heart, aligning with Proverbs 10:14, which praises storing knowledge rather than revealing it imprudently. Samson’s openness contrasts these teachings, highlighting a failure to exercise wisdom.
These scriptural contradictions remind us that wisdom, caution, and discretion can safeguard one against devastation brought by misplaced trust, urging thoughtful reflection on whom we entrust with our secrets.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Judges 16:18 | And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up this once, for he hath shewed me all his heart. Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought money in their hand. |
| 2. | Proverbs 7:21 | With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. |
| 3. | Proverbs 14:15 | The simple believeth every word: but the prudent [man] looketh well to his going. |
| 4. | Proverbs 3:7 | Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. |
| 5. | Isaiah 5:21 | Woe unto [them that are] wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! [in their own sight: Heb. before their face] |
| 6. | 2 Timothy 3:6 | For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, |
| 7. | Matthew 10:16 | Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. [harmless: or, simple] |
| 8. | Proverbs 11:13 | A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. [A talebearer: Heb. He that walketh, being a talebearer] |
| 9. | Proverbs 25:9 | Debate thy cause with thy neighbour [himself]; and discover not a secret to another: [a secret...: or, the secret of] |
| 10. | Proverbs 4:23 | Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life. [with...: Heb. above all keeping] |
| 11. | Proverbs 10:14 | Wise [men] lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish [is] near destruction. |