Samson
Name Origin & Meaning
Derived from 'shemesh' (sun), Samson's name evokes brilliance and power. He was a Nazirite from birth, consecrated to God as Israel's deliverer. Like the sun, his strength was unstoppable when unobstructed, yet the sun can be covered — and Samson allowed Delilah to cover him by cutting the external sign of his consecration.
First Biblical Appearance
“And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him.”
Samson's birth to the formerly barren wife of Manoah, fulfilling the angel's announcement.
Biblical Significance
Samson was a Nazirite judge whose supernatural strength was tied to his uncut hair. He killed a lion bare-handed, slew a thousand Philistines with a jawbone, and carried Gaza's gates on his shoulders. Betrayed by Delilah, blinded, and imprisoned, he finally destroyed the temple of Dagon, killing more in his death than in his life. Hebrews 11:32 numbers him among the heroes of faith.
Notable Bearers
- Samson the Judge of Israel
Personality & Character
Universal compassion and wisdom — the number of divine love reaching to the ends of the earth
Spiritual symbolism drawn from Scripture and tradition
Modern Variants
A Blessing for This Name
May you guard the sacred things of your calling and find your greatest victory in surrender rather than strength alone. May your final act be greater than your finest hour.