The answer is: Gaza

Jdg 16:21

Samson's imprisonment in Gaza marks a significant moment in the story of one of Israel’s most infamous judges. Gaza, a city of the Philistines, is not just a backdrop for this drama; it illustrates the bitter conflict between the Israelites and their oppressors. The Philistines had long been a thorn in Israelite side, and capturing Samson—one of their most formidable opponents—was a triumph for them.

After his capture, Samson's hair was cut, and he was paraded as a trophy of cruelty. The narrative underscores a theme that resonates deeply throughout many Biblical tales: triumph through apparent defeat. Unlike modern crime dramas, where a hero might poke fun at his captors, Samson endured harsh treatment but retained his resolve, which laid the groundwork for his ultimate revenge—the destruction of the Philistines' temple.

Interestingly, Gaza is one of the oldest cities in the world, with its origins stretching back thousands of years, possibly even reaching back to the time of Abraham. Its mention in the context of Samson also brings to light the shades of irony and justice—the fallen hero dying at the hands of those he intended to defeat.

Moreover, if you ever hear the phrase “to be between a rock and a hard place,” it could very well echo the physical and spiritual struggles that came together in many Biblical narratives. Sometimes, the very places of defeat can be the sites of ultimate strength and resurrection, illustrating the unpredictable ways in which fate plays out.