Samson used in succession three different names for God, namely ’Adonai, Yahweh, and ’Elohim (see Vol. I, pp. 35, 170). This is the second time the author mentions Samson’s praying. We need not conclude that these were the only occasions on which he prayed, but if prayer had been more of a habit in his life, he might have been spared this shame and humiliation, and his life might have fulfilled the great destiny planned for him by God.

Some translate this passage so as to give the thought, “that I may be avenged for one of my two eyes.” They then reach the conclusion that Samson died with an expression of grim humor upon his lips, so in keeping with his former bantering moods. According to this translation, even though he anticipated a great catastrophe by causing the roof to collapse, it would not atone for the loss of his sight, but it would suffice for one eye.

Though this translation is possible, the one given in the text, or the more literal one given in the LXX, the Vulgate, and the Syriac, “I will requite one recompense,” is equally allowable and seems to fit the context better. Inasmuch as the bitter experiences of his humiliation had led Samson to repentance, it seems far more probable that he died in a serious mood—seeking to redeem, in the last moments of his life, his lost opportunities. The taunts attributing the victory of the Philistines to the heathen deity Dagon may have aroused his soul to vindicate the name of the God of Israel upon whom he himself had brought such dishonor.