Valuing leadership and love: David exceeding Samson

Of all the characters of the book of Judges none has more in common with the David of the so-called ‘History of David’s Rise’ than Samson. A careful comparison of Judg. 13.1–16.3 with 1 Sam. 16–23 reveals numerous similarities between the two figures, including the way their slaying of lions presages their most striking acts, and the way in which Yahweh and Saul, respectively, use the prospect of marriage to manipulate them to attack Philistines. We also find parallels in their calls, relationship to the r？a？ YHWH, relationship to family, and use of wisdom. These extensive similarities naturally lead us to consider the differences which may explain Samson’s failure and David’s success. David is a leader, while Samson acts solo; David is beloved while not loving anyone, while Samson loves without being loved himself. These observations support deuteronomistic ideology highlighting leaders and leadership, and devaluing human love for other humans