Hebrew Key Terms:
Context: After noting Samson's birth and growth ("the boy grew, and the LORD blessed him," 13:24), the narrative records the first manifestation of the Spirit: "The Spirit of the LORD began to stir him (וַתָּחֶל רוּחַ יְהוָה לְפַעֲמוֹ) at Mahaneh-dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol." The verb פָּעַם means "to thrust, impel, disturb"—suggesting inner restlessness, divine prompting that would lead to action. This initial stirring preceded the more dramatic Spirit-empowerments.
OT-to-OT Development:
Connections:
Christological Connection: The Spirit's initial stirring in Samson anticipates the Spirit's presence in Jesus' early years. Luke records that Jesus "grew and became strong, filled with wisdom" (2:40), and at age twelve displayed supernatural understanding (2:46-47). The stirring of the Spirit prepared both Samson and Jesus for public ministry. Yet the differences are significant: Samson's Spirit-empowerment was episodic and eventually forfeited; Jesus was conceived by the Spirit (Luke 1:35), filled with the Spirit "without measure" (John 3:34), and never lost divine presence. The Spirit's stirring in Samson shadows the Spirit's permanent, unlimited rest upon Christ.
Connection Method(s): Typology (Providential, Backward-Looking), Contrast — The Spirit's initial stirring in Samson anticipates Christ's Spirit-filled development, though Samson's episodic empowerment contrasts with Christ's permanent, unlimited anointing.
Trajectory Table: 137 - Samson (Spirit-Empowered Deliverer)