Judges 14:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Initially, they resolved that this desire would not be granted since their favored son’s chosen one was an outsider. However, when it became clear that logical reasoning could not sway him from his intention, they conceded to his plea.

Why did Samson, despite leading a life marked by corruption and defiance of divine law, experience spiritual favor? This reveals that the Lord, for the purpose of constructing His greater plan, grants His divine gifts even to those who are unworthy. This truth is illustrated in the holy Gospel by the Saviour, who declares: Many will come on that day and say to Me, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and perform many mighty works in Your name? And I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness (Matthew 7:22-23). The Almighty acted similarly in this instance. In an effort to subdue the foreign oppressors, He bestowed upon Samson strength and might through His spiritual grace.

Manoah's spouse, the mother of Samson, is depicted with great depth in the book of Judges. She embodies a passionate adherence to the law and is portrayed as virtuous and even more astute than her husband. This is exemplified when Samson expressed his desire to wed a Philistine woman, seeking his parents' approval, which was ultimately denied. Subsequently, he approached his father alone, not daring to believe that his mother would acquiesce to his unlawful wish, hoping instead that his father might permit him to pursue a marriage contrary to the law. This highlights the devotion and fervor of Manoah's wife.