Or simply, “is there not?” Samson’s parents objected to his proposal and urged that he take a wife from among the Hebrews rather than from the pagan Philistines. Such a marriage must have been especially repugnant to Manoah and his wife because they knew Samson had been called to do a special work for God. It is the duty of God-fearing parents to seek to deter their children from entering into marriage with those of a different faith. It is their responsibility to lay down religious principles while their children are yet young that will lead them to make the proper choice later.

In the Hebrew the word “her” is emphatic. Samson brushes aside the objections of his parents. He will brook no interference with his inclinations. He refused both parental and divine counsel.

It is unfortunate that so many youth do not feel obligated to weigh carefully the counsels of their parents when planning marriage. On the other hand, parents may be in danger of being too peremptory in their denials. God pleads with men to follow the way of right, but He does not prevent a contrary choice. In the same way a limit is placed upon the rights of parents to control the wills of their children after their children have reached the age of accountability.

Literally, “she is right in my eyes.” His infatuation blinded him to her unsuitability for becoming a life companion and partner for one who was to be a leader in Israel. A wise, God-fearing person will recognize that there are other important criteria to be considered, such as basic attitudes, religious convictions, ideals.