“Then the Philistines went up, and pitched in Judah, and spread themselves in Lehi.”
Historical Context:The book of Judges recounts a period in Israel’s history after they had entered the Promised Land. It was a time of transition between the leadership of Joshua and the establishment of the monarchy. The book describes a cyclical pattern of Israel’s disobedience, oppression by foreign nations, cries for deliverance, and the raising up of judges to rescue them. Judges 15 is part of the account of Samson, one of the judges God raised up to deliver Israel from the Philistines.
Setting:At this point in the narrative, Samson had recently become a judge and had already begun to confront the Philistines who were oppressing Israel. Judges 15:4-5 describes how Samson took revenge on the Philistines by setting their fields on fire after his wife was given to another man. In response, the Philistines retaliated by burning Samson’s wife and her father to death.
Verse Analysis:In Judges 15:9, we see the Philistines’ response to Samson’s actions. They decided to launch an offensive against the Israelites and set up their camp in Judah, specifically in a place called Lehi. The word “Lehi” means “jawbone” and may refer to a specific location or geographical feature associated with this event. The Philistines strategically positioned themselves in this area to exert their dominance over the Israelites.
Significance:This verse illustrates the ongoing conflict between Samson and the Philistines. It highlights the Philistines’ desire to assert their control over Israel and their readiness to engage in military action. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during the time of the judges, and Samson was chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from their oppression.
Application:
- God’s faithfulness:Despite Israel’s repeated disobedience, God continued to raise up judges to rescue them. It is a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His covenant people and His willingness to deliver them from their enemies when they turned to Him.
- Consequences of revenge:The events leading up to the Philistines’ attack were driven by Samson’s desire for revenge. While Samson’s actions were a response to injustice, they also led to further violence and conflict. This serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences of seeking revenge instead of relying on God’s justice.
- God’s strength in weakness:Samson, despite his personal flaws and weaknesses, was used by God to accomplish great things. His strength came from the Spirit of the Lord, as we see throughout his story. This encourages us to recognize that God can work through imperfect individuals to bring about His purposes.
In summary, Judges 15:9 portrays the Philistines’ response to Samson’s actions, as they set up camp in Judah, specifically in Lehi. This verse highlights the ongoing conflict between Samson and the Philistines, the consequences of revenge, and God’s faithfulness in delivering His people.
