Back in the day, as a young theology student in college, I was fascinated and intrigued by the story of Samson in the Bible. Samson’s power, moral weaknesses, and eventual fall left me wondering if he was in Heaven or Hell. So I decided to research the subject. For my research, I interviewed my theology professors and the local clergy to obtain their educated opinion on whether or not Samson went to Heaven. These interviews helped me gain a strong understanding of Samson, from which I could form informed conclusions, hence satisfying my curiosity. Recently, in a class at the local community college where I teach theology, there was a heated debate about Samson and where he went after death. Some students said he should be in Heaven, while others argued he must be in Hell. As the lecturer, the students turned to me to settle the debate. Armed with the findings from my earlier research on Samson in my college days, I knew I was the best person to educate the students and help settle the debate. So, will Samson be in Heaven?
Samson is likely to be in Heaven. In Hebrews 11:32-33, Samson is mentioned alongside other pillars of faith in the Old Testament, like David and Samuel, who are believed to be in Heaven. If Samson’s name is mentioned with other renowned names of men and women (like Rahab, Hebrews 11:31) who showed great faith in God and were delivered and saved, then it would be wise to assume that Samson, too, will likely also be in Heaven.
I invite you to join me in this article as I discuss what happened to Samson, if there is proof that he’s in Heaven, and more. Keep reading for more information.
What happened to Samson in the Bible?
The Bible tells us that after being tricked by Delilah (Judges 16:15-17) to reveal his source of strength (his hair was shaved), Samson was captured by the Philistines and imprisoned (Judges 16:21). While in prison, his eyes were gouged out, and he was made a grain grinder. Unknowingly to the Philistines, Samson’s hair (his source of strength) began growing again (Judges 16:22).
The Philistines organized a party to thank their god Dagon for delivering Samson to them, the man who destroyed their land and killed many of their people. When they got drunk at the party, they asked for Samson to be brought in to perform and entertain them. (Judges 16:23-25).
While entertaining the Philistines, Samson asked a boy leading him around by hand (because he could not see) to let him touch and lean against the pillars that supported the building (Judges 16:26).
While supporting himself against the pillars, Samson asked God to give him strength one more time to get revenge against the Philistines for the loss of his eyes. He pushed the pillars with all his strength and destroyed the building. He died with the Philistines (over 3,000) and got his revenge (Judges 16:27-30).
Is there biblical proof that Samson went to Heaven?
The Bible does not expressly say that Samson went to Heaven. But by other verses in the Bible, it can be assumed that his spirit and soul are in Abraham’s bosom, waiting for the final resurrection (Luke 16:22-23).
The following is what can be used to suggest and conclude that at least Samson’s soul and spirit are in Abraham’s bosom awaiting the final resurrection:
- In Hebrews 11:32-33, Samson is mentioned with other known people of faith that are believed to be in heaven.
- God chose Samson. An angel announced Samson’s birth (Judges 13:3). Only a few notable people, like Jesus, John the Baptist, and Isaac, had this privilege.
- God anointed Samson at birth to do His work (Judges 13:5). Only a few others, like Samuel and John the Baptist, were anointed for God’s work at birth.
Going by how Samson’s name is mentioned among great believers, how he is chosen and anointed by God, plus how he called on God’s name in the final moments before his death (Judges 16:28), then it can be assumed Samson, like all other people of faith, is safely in Abraham’s bosom in Heaven awaiting the final resurrection.
How did Samson not go to Hell even though he died by suicide?
Scholars have implied that although Samson did kill himself, his death was not strictly suicide. That is because Samson’s mission and work were to kill the Philistines(Judges 13:5) and save the Israelites from oppression. Since he achieved his goals (killed over 3,000 Philistines), it can be argued that his death can also be viewed as sacrificing himself to finish the work God had called him to do. His death was not the main aim of his actions but to kill the Philistines.
Did Samson repent his sins before he died?
The Bible, in Judges 16:28, tells us that Samson called upon God’s name in the final minutes before his death. He was begging and praying to God to be remembered and his strength to be restored one final time. Samson asking and begging to be remembered by God implies that he had realized that God had abandoned him. Begging and praying can, therefore, be taken to mean that he had repented his sins.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
