Question 1

What does Judges 15:8 mean?

Accepted Answer

Judges 15:8 says that Samson struck the Philistines with a devastating blow, described as "hip and thigh," causing a great slaughter, and then went to live in a place called the rock Etam. The verse highlights the intensity of Samson's attack and his retreat to a strong, defensible location afterward. In this part of the story, Samson is acting alone against the Philistines after they wronged him. The phrase "hip and thigh" is an ancient expression suggesting a fierce, thorough defeat. Afterward, Samson seeks safety by dwelling in the rocky area of Etam, which would have offered natural protection from retaliation.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Judges 15:8

Accepted Answer

"hip" (שׁוֹק, shoq) and "thigh" (יָרֵךְ, yarek): These words together form an idiom in Hebrew, often understood as describing a complete or overwhelming defeat, rather than a literal attack on those body parts. "great" (גָּדוֹל, gadol) and "slaughter" (מַכָּה, makkah): This pairing emphasizes the scale and severity of Samson's actions, showing that the attack was not minor but a significant blow to the Philistines. "top" (שֵׂעִיף, sei'if) and "rock" (סֶלַע, sela): These words clarify that Samson went to a high, rocky place, which would have been a strategic spot for defense and hiding.

Question 3

Why Judges 15:8 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clears up that "hip and thigh" is not a literal description but an idiom for a crushing, all-out attack, which helps avoid confusion about the nature of Samson's violence. It emphasizes Samson's role as a lone fighter against the Philistines, acting outside of a formal army or support system. The mention of the rock Etam connects to the larger narrative, showing Samson's need for refuge and setting up the next events in his conflict with the Philistines.

Judges 15:8 (KJV)