Judges 15:19 – “Then God opened up the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned and he revived. So the spring was called En Hakkore, and it is still there in Lehi.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Judges 15:19 describes a miraculous moment where God responds to Samson’s desperate cry for water. After Samson’s great victory over the Philistines, he finds himself exhausted and on the brink of collapse from thirst. In response to his prayer, God opens up a hollow place in Lehi, causing water to flow out. As Samson drinks, his strength is restored, and he is revived. Samson names the spring En Hakkore, which means “Spring of the Caller,” signifying that God answered his cry for help. This verse illustrates God’s provision in a moment of extreme need, showing that He listens and responds when His people call out to Him.
Historical Context
This event takes place during the time of the Judges, a period marked by Israel’s repeated struggles with sin and oppression, particularly from the Philistines. Samson was raised up by God to begin delivering Israel from their enemies, and his victory at Lehi was a major step in that mission. However, the battle left him physically depleted, highlighting the human frailty even in moments of triumph. The provision of water in this dry and desolate place served as a clear sign of God’s ongoing involvement and care for His chosen leader. The spring that flowed from the hollow place became a physical reminder of God’s ability to meet needs in the most unexpected ways.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the importance of relying on God in moments of need and recognizing His power to provide. Samson’s experience teaches us that God is attentive to our prayers, even when they are spoken in desperation. It also emphasizes that God’s provision is not just about the big victories but extends to the daily needs that sustain us. The name En Hakkore, meaning “Spring of the Caller,” reminds us that God hears those who call out to Him. This passage encourages believers to trust that God is fully aware of their needs and is capable of providing exactly what is necessary, often in miraculous ways.
Literary Analysis
The narrative of this verse shifts from action to a moment of divine intervention, highlighting God’s responsiveness. The description of God opening up a hollow place and water flowing out creates a vivid image of refreshment and renewal. The physical act of Samson drinking and being revived symbolizes spiritual restoration as well, showing that God’s provision goes beyond the immediate physical need. Naming the spring En Hakkore serves as a literary device that not only marks the location but also captures the essence of the encounter—God responding to the cry of His servant.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 17:6 – “I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink,” another instance where God miraculously provides water in response to a need.
- Psalm 34:17 – “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles,” reinforcing that God listens to the cries of His people.
- Isaiah 41:18 – “I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water,” illustrating God’s power to provide refreshment in the most unlikely places.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Judges 15:19 serves as a powerful reminder that God hears and responds to our prayers, especially in times of great need. It encourages believers to bring their needs before God, trusting that He cares about every aspect of their lives, from the significant battles to the simple need for refreshment. This verse teaches us that God’s provision is often unexpected but perfectly timed, meeting us right where we are. It challenges us to remember God’s past faithfulness and to believe that He is still capable of providing for our needs, no matter how impossible the situation seems.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse beautifully illustrates God’s loving care and responsiveness. Even after Samson’s battle, when he found himself physically weak, God did not leave him to suffer but intervened in a miraculous way. The opening of the spring shows God’s intimate knowledge of Samson’s needs and His willingness to provide refreshment and restoration. God’s love is not limited to the grand victories; it extends to the quiet, personal moments of need. This passage reassures us that God is both powerful and compassionate, actively involved in sustaining His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Samson’s experience of thirst and God’s miraculous provision of water connect to the greater theme of spiritual thirst and fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. In John 7:37-38, Jesus says, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” Jesus is the ultimate source of spiritual refreshment, offering living water that satisfies our deepest needs. Just as God provided physical water for Samson, Jesus provides the living water that restores and revives our souls, fulfilling our spiritual thirst in ways that no earthly source can.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does God’s provision of water for Samson encourage you to trust Him in your own moments of need?
- What are some ways you have experienced God’s unexpected provision in your life?
- How can this story remind you to cry out to God when you feel exhausted or overwhelmed?
- How does Jesus’ offer of living water inspire you to seek Him as the ultimate source of refreshment and strength in your spiritual journey?