Samson & Delilah
The betrayal that cut his strength
The hero Samson, whose strength lay in his hair, falls in love with the Philistine Delilah; bribed by his enemies, she discovers his secret and cuts his hair as he sleeps, delivering him to ruin.
01Why it matters
It is the great biblical tale of love as betrayal and weakness, painted by Rubens and set to opera by Saint-Saëns.
02The conflict
The Philistines' bribe and the secret of Samson's strength.
03The iconic moment
Samson pulling down the temple columns on his enemies.
04What survived
Saint-Saëns's opera "Samson and Delilah."
05Frequently asked questions
Who were Samson & Delilah?
The hero Samson, whose strength lay in his hair, falls in love with the Philistine Delilah; bribed by his enemies, she discovers his secret and cuts his hair as he sleeps, delivering him to ruin.
Why is the story of Samson & Delilah famous?
It is the great biblical tale of love as betrayal and weakness, painted by Rubens and set to opera by Saint-Saëns.
How does the story of Samson & Delilah end?
Samson pulling down the temple columns on his enemies. Saint-Saëns's opera "Samson and Delilah."
Is the story of Samson & Delilah real?
Yes, Samson & Delilah is based on real people and events.
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