A Hypothesis on the Original Meaning of Samson’s Hair

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study on the original meaning of Samson's hair, which according to the biblical text was the secret of his superhuman strength. In this narrative Delilah, after discovering that his power resides in his hair, cuts it, leaving him weakened and vulnerable, and then hands him over to the Philistines, who blind and imprison him. Drawing parallels between Delilah’s characteristics and those of ancient lunar goddesses like the Caucasian Dali, Diana and Artemis, connections are made between Delilah and the Moon. Likewise, earlier research, delving into the significance of Samson’s famous riddle, associates him with fire, metallurgical activities, and even the Sun itself (as indicated by the etymology of his name). This dual association—Delilah with the Moon and Samson with the Sun—is the key to understanding the original meaning of his hair, which is a sophisticated metaphor for the Sun’s corona, which shines at the climax of a total solar eclipse, when Earth, Moon and Sun align. This event casts a cold darkness over the Earth, with the Sun appearing weakened and “blinded”, resembling a black disk, surrounded by the corona, unable to provide light and warmth. Furthermore, additional hints, yet to be explored, suggest that other feats attributed to Samson may also symbolize celestial phenomena. It is also plausible that in ancient times the Sun's corona inspired the creation of regal diadems as well as radiate crowns—often adorned with seven rays, probably reminiscent of Samson’s seven braids—symbolizing the ruler's identification with the Sun itself. Keywords: Samson, Delilah, Dali, Diana, Artemis, Sun, Moon, Sun’s corona, solar eclipse, radiate crown