The answer is: Not to eat pork

Num 6

The story of Samson and Delilah in the Book of Judges is a fascinating narrative, steeped in a rich cultural and historical backdrop. Samson was known for his immense strength, which he believed was a gift from God as part of his Nazirite vow. But what is a Nazirite vow, you might ask? Nazirite essentially means “consecrated” or “separated.” Those who took this vow followed specific restrictions, including not cutting their hair, avoiding products from the vine (like wine and grapes), and steering clear of anything that dead bodies had touched.

Interestingly, the rules of the Nazirite vow don’t explicitly include dietary restrictions against pork, which is a common misconception. In fact, the dietary law prohibitions regarding certain types of meat emerged later and are more associated with the larger context of Israelite purity laws. This little tidbit highlights how interpretations of laws can change over time!

Samson’s unique strengths were intertwined with his covenant but meant he faced betrayal in Delilah, a story that reminds us of the often fragile nature of human relationships and promises. Did you know the biblical narratives present themes of strength and vulnerability across various figures, from David with Goliath to Daniel in the lion’s den? In many ways, they echo the struggle to remain faithful to one's commitments amidst challenges—and how easily even the strongest can succumb to temptation.