דְּלִילָה (de.li.lah)
de.li.lah
Delilah
N:N-F-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 6 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-F-P
Word Overview
The name Delilah (דְּלִילָה) appears six times in the Hebrew Bible, exclusively within the narrative of Samson in Judges 16. Lexical sources identify her as a Philistine woman and the mistress of the judge Samson. The etymology often cited links the name to the root meaning "feeble" or "weakness," a detail that resonates ironically with the story’s events.
While the text does not explicitly state she caused weakness, the linguistic connection provides a striking thematic layer. She is the agent through which Samson’s strength is undone; by cutting his hair, she literally enfeebles him and hands him over to the Philistines. This usage transforms her name from a simple identifier into a narrative symbol of the betrayal that leads to his capture.
Delilah serves as a pivotal figure in the Judges cycle, illustrating the tension between Israel’s judges and their neighboring enemies. Her role is defined entirely by this single act of betrayal, making her one of the most memorable, yet minimally described, characters in the Old Testament historical books.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Delilah appears only in the story of Samson, yet it carries a heavy weight. It likely means "feeble" or "weak," a detail that mirrors the outcome of her actions. In Judges 16, she becomes the instrument through which Samson’s great strength is undone. This narrative reminds us that even the strongest among us are vulnerable to persistent temptation and betrayal.
Her story is not just about ancient history; it speaks to the human condition. We all face moments where loyalty is tested or where our guard is down. The text shows how repeated pressure can wear down resolve. It invites us to examine what we value most and to protect our integrity with care, knowing that weakness often comes from within our own choices.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 6 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Delilah5×
- [was] Delilah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- דְּלִילָה֙2×
- דְּלִילָה֩1×
- דְּלִילָֽה\׃1×
- דְּלִילָ֜ה1×
- דְלִילָ֗ה1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 16:4
It came to pass afterward that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah.
This verse introduces Delilah as the woman Samson loved, establishing the personal connection that makes her subsequent betrayal so painful and significant.
-
Judges 16:6
Delilah said to Samson, “Please tell me where your great strength lies, and what you might be bound to afflict you.”
Here Delilah directly asks for the source of Samson’s strength, marking the beginning of her deliberate effort to uncover his secret through manipulation.
-
Judges 16:18
When Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, “Come up this once, for he has told me all his heart.” Then the lords of the Philistines came up to her and brought the money in their hand.
This verse shows the culmination of her deceit, as she finally calls the Philistine leaders after realizing Samson has revealed everything, leading directly to his capture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Delilah mean?
Why is Delilah important in the Bible?
How many times is Delilah mentioned in the Bible?
Every Occurrence (6 verses across 1 books)
Judges 6 verses
It came to pass afterward that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah.
Judges 16:6Delilah said to Samson, “Please tell me where your great strength lies, and what you might be bound to afflict you.”
Judges 16:10Delilah said to Samson, “Behold, you have mocked me, and told me lies. Now please tell me how you might be bound.”
Judges 16:12So Delilah took new ropes and bound him with them, then said to him, “The Philistines are on you, Samson!” The ambush…
Judges 16:13Delilah said to Samson, “Until now, you have mocked me and told me lies. Tell me with what you might be bound.” He said…
Judges 16:18When Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying,…