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Scripture Mapping

Historical ContextJudges 14

Historical Context

  1. Time period

    12th Century BC (Period of the Judges)

    Cultural background

    The Israelites were living in the Promised Land but were frequently influenced by the surrounding Canaanite culture, including their religious practices.

    Political environment

    During the time of the Judges, Israel had no centralized government. The Philistines were a dominant power in the region, often oppressing the Israelites.

    Geographical setting

    The events occur in the region of Timnah, which was in the territory of the tribe of Dan, near the Philistine border.

    Societal norms

    Intermarriage with non-Israelites was generally discouraged, as it often led to idolatry. The Nazirite vow included abstaining from wine, not cutting hair, and avoiding contact with the dead.

    Significant figures
    • Samson

      A judge of Israel known for his great strength, consecrated as a Nazirite from birth.

    • Philistine Woman

      Samson's wife from Timnah, whose marriage to Samson was part of God's plan to confront the Philistines.

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