ATSS: Horace Alexander, “Samson: Heroism or Terrorism?”
10 January 2024 |
Samson was a good example of how not to be a leader: narcissistic, morally weak, impulsive, sociopathic, and unpredictable. His story in Judges (13-16) is a classic example of biblical tragedy, and shows how human frailty cannot thwart the will of God. This presentation uses Aristotle’s profile of a tragic hero to frame an analysis of Samson as a tragic character and raises many issues of current interest such as suicide, freedom of choice, the nature of divine will, male-female relationships, and the politics of liberation.
Specifically, the story raises the following questions:
- Should a person be expected to fulfill vows that were imposed on him before his birth? Are humans mere pawns in the hands of the Almighty?
- Does God’s foreknowledge compromise man’s freedom of choice? If God knows what we will do before we do it, are we free to change our minds and do something else?
- Why would God empower a person to violate vows made to God?
- Did Samson’s strength reside in his hair? Did Samson need a Mr. Universe physique to do the feats of strength he performed?
- How does the tragedy of Samson illustrate the overarching will of God?
- Did Samson commit suicide? What happens to those who do? What is Samson’s eternal destiny?
- Are there any constructive lessons to be had from the story of Samson in view of the current Israel-Hamas war?
- Were Samson’s actions examples of heroism or terrorism?
Teacher:
Horace B. Alexander M.A., Ed.S., Ed.D., is a Professor Emeritus of English with a specialty in the literature of the Bible. The author of the historical novel Moon Over Port Royal, he has also served as a school principal, District Superintendent, Dean of Instruction, and College Vice President.
Moderator:
How to join:
One-click link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83747530959
Passcode: SAMSON
ATSS starting time depends on where you are. If you’re on the west coast of the United States, it’ll be 10:30 AM. On the east coast, 1:30 PM. Times in Europe, Africa, and elsewhere will vary with local time changes. Please double-check the correct time where you live.
The class is intended to last about 2 hours, though the conversation often continues to 4 PM (Eastern time).
About our class:
- The AT Sabbath Seminar is intended to be a courteous forum. We discuss and ask questions politely. We don’t accuse, get angry, put people down, or judge the state of their salvation.
- Stick to the topic in both comments and chat discussion.
- Make your comments and questions short—don’t dominate.
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We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
Coming up:
- Tom deBruin
- Horace Alexander
- Laurence Turner
- Andreas Bochman
- Jim Walters