And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged of the Philistines for my two eyes.

JUDGES 16:28KJV
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Judges 16:28 (KJV)

What does Judges 16:28 mean?

Judges 16:28 shows Samson praying to the LORD, asking God to remember him and give him strength one last time so he can take revenge on the Philistines for blinding him. Samson’s prayer is a desperate plea for God’s help in the final moments of his life, focused on personal justice against his enemies.

In this verse, Samson speaks directly to God after being captured and blinded by the Philistines. He addresses God with titles that show respect and urgency, asking not just for strength but for God to "remember" him—suggesting he feels forgotten or abandoned. Samson’s request is specific: he wants to be strong just once more, not for his own glory, but to repay the Philistines for the loss of his eyes.

The Hebrew behind Judges 16:28

  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh, H3068) and "Lord GOD" (אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה, Adonai Yahweh, H136 H3069): Samson uses both the personal name for God and a title meaning "Master," showing both intimacy and reverence in his prayer.
  • "Remember" (זָכַר, zakar, H2142): This word often means more than just recalling; it carries the sense of acting on someone’s behalf. Samson is asking God not just to think of him, but to intervene.
  • "Strengthen" (חָזַק, chazaq, H2388): The verb here means to make strong or to empower. Samson is not relying on his own strength but is fully dependent on God for this final act.
  • "Avenged" (נָקַם, naqam, H5358/H5359): This word points to the idea of justice or retribution, not just personal anger. Samson frames his request as a response to the wrong done to him.

Why Judges 16:28 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Samson’s final act is not just about personal revenge, but about seeking God’s intervention after feeling abandoned and powerless.
  • The way Samson addresses God highlights his humility and desperation, contrasting with earlier stories where he acted more independently.
  • Understanding the specific Hebrew words helps reveal that Samson’s prayer is about more than memory or strength; it is a plea for God to act decisively in a moment of deep need.