Strange Story: Why was Samson not punished for adultery?

It was the responsibility of the community, acting as extension of God’s authority, to carry out the punishments for things like sexual sins. There had to be a public trial in which the leaders of the community usually served as the judges. The accusers and the one being accused could each speak their case. If the evidence against the person was convincing, the punishment (often stoning) would take place immediately. The ones who took part in the punishment were first of all, the primary witness, then the other witnesses, then all those present who had been convinced by the evidence.

But who would want to bring charges against Samson? First of all, he was their hero, defeating the Philistines single-handedly in various battles. Also, if he was that strong and that good a fighter, it would be a bad idea to make him mad, especially since he was known to not follow God’s laws very well.

So, Samson was left alone and never punished for his improper relationships with women because all the Israelites chose to simply leave him alone. They preferred that he keep fighting the Philistines.

The next chapter in this Strange Story is Judges 19 The Levite and His Concubine.