Withes, Withs, Green
NatureWhat is the meaning of Withes, Withs, Green in the Bible?
The binding material used by Delilah to restrain Samson consisted of fresh, moist plant fibers or animal sinews, described as 'green' to indicate their pliability and strength before drying.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the physical properties of these fresh binding materials clarifies the narrative tension in the biblical account, as the strength of the bonds relied on their moist state before they became brittle and snapped.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Withes, Withs, Green were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Withes, Withs, Green in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Withes, Withs, Green clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Withes, Withs, Green." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/withes-withs-green/