Judges 14:5 (KJV)

What does Judges 14:5 mean?

Judges 14:5 describes Samson traveling with his parents to Timnath, where they come to the vineyards, and a young lion suddenly confronts Samson with a roar. The verse sets the stage for an unexpected and dangerous encounter as Samson is on his way to arrange his marriage.

Samson is not speaking here; the verse is a narrative description. He and his parents are going to Timnath, a Philistine town, because Samson wants to marry a woman from there. The mention of the vineyards and the sudden appearance of a young lion highlights both the ordinary setting and the extraordinary event that is about to unfold, which will show something important about Samson’s character and strength.

The Hebrew behind Judges 14:5

• "Vineyards" (כֶּרֶם, kerem): The use of the word for vineyards is notable because Samson, as a Nazirite, was supposed to avoid grapes and wine. The setting subtly hints at the tension between Samson’s calling and his actions.
• "Young lion" (כְּפִיר, kephir): This word refers specifically to a young, vigorous lion, emphasizing the danger and strength of the animal that confronts Samson.
• "Roared" (שָׁאַג, sha'ag): The verb used here means more than just a noise; it suggests a threatening, aggressive challenge, making the encounter even more dramatic.

Why Judges 14:5 matters

• The verse introduces a turning point in Samson’s story, marking the beginning of events that reveal his unique strength and his complicated relationship with his Nazirite vows.
• The detail about the vineyards quietly points to Samson’s tendency to live on the edge of his vows, foreshadowing future conflicts in his life.
• The sudden attack by a young lion sets up a demonstration of Samson’s God-given power, which becomes a key theme in the stories that follow.