Clicky

5 Examples of Revenge in the Bible
Skip to content

5 Examples of Revenge in the Bible

Introduction

Revenge is a common theme in literature and media, and it’s no different in the Bible. While it may be a controversial topic, there are instances of revenge in the Bible that have been interpreted in various ways by scholars and believers alike.

In this blog post, we will explore five examples of revenge in the Bible and discuss their significance.

The concept of revenge has been around for as long as humans have existed. It’s a natural instinct to want to seek justice for wrongdoing, and revenge is often seen as a way to achieve that justice. However, revenge can also lead to a cycle of violence and can be harmful to both the perpetrator and the victim.

The Bible has its fair share of revenge stories, with characters seeking vengeance for various reasons. Some of these stories have been used to justify acts of violence, while others have been interpreted as cautionary tales. Regardless of the interpretation, these stories offer valuable lessons for readers.

In this blog post, we will examine five examples of revenge in the Bible, their context, and their significance in the larger narrative.

Revenge in the bible

1. Samson’s Revenge (Judges 15:7-8, 15:11-13)

Samson is a well-known character in the Bible, known for his incredible strength and his heroic feats. However, he was also known for his vengeful nature. In Judges 15:7-8, Samson’s wife is given to another man, which infuriates him.

He then captures 300 foxes and ties their tails together with torches, setting them loose in the Philistines’ fields, destroying their crops.

Later in Judges 15:11-13, the Philistines retaliate by attacking Samson’s people, and Samson responds by killing 1,000 Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey.

This act of revenge is seen by some as justified, as the Philistines had attacked Samson’s people first. Others view it as a disproportionate response and a sign of Samson’s violent nature.

2. David’s Revenge (1 Samuel 25:1-13, 25:36-38)

David is another well-known character in the Bible, known for his bravery and his close relationship with God. However, he also had a vengeful side.

In 1 Samuel 25:1-13, David and his men ask a wealthy man named Nabal for provisions, but Nabal refuses. David becomes angry and decides to take revenge, planning to kill Nabal and his entire household.

However, Nabal’s wife Abigail intervenes and provides David and his men with provisions, preventing them from carrying out their plan. Later, when Nabal dies, David marries Abigail. Some scholars see this as an example of God intervening to prevent an act of revenge and promoting forgiveness and redemption.

3. Absalom’s Revenge (2 Samuel 13:23-29, 18:9-15)

Absalom was one of King David’s sons, known for his good looks and his ambition. However, he also had a vengeful streak. In 2 Samuel 13:23-29, Absalom’s sister Tamar is raped by their half-brother Amnon. Absalom becomes angry but bides his time, waiting for the right moment to seek revenge.

In 2 Samuel 18:9-15, Absalom leads a rebellion against his father David, seeking to take the throne for himself. David’s men defeat Absalom’s army, and Absalom is killed in the battle.

This story is seen as a cautionary tale about the dangers of revenge and the consequences of letting anger and resentment fester within us.

4. Jezebel’s Revenge (1 Kings 19:1-2, 21:1-16)

Jezebel was the wife of King Ahab and a worshipper of the false god Baal. She is often seen as a villain in the Bible, known for her corrupt influence and her role in promoting idol worship.

In 1 Kings 19:1-2, Jezebel sends a messenger to the prophet Elijah, threatening to kill him for his prophesies.

In 1 Kings 21:1-16, Jezebel plots to take possession of a vineyard belonging to a man named Naboth. She arranges for false witnesses to accuse Naboth of cursing God and the king, resulting in his execution. Jezebel then takes possession of the vineyard, but her actions are condemned by the prophet Elijah.

This story is seen as an example of the dangers of greed and the corrupting influence of power. It also highlights the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of opposition.

5. Haman’s Revenge (Esther 3:1-6, 7:9-10)

The book of Esther tells the story of a Jewish woman named Esther who becomes queen of Persia and saves her people from a plot to exterminate them. The villain of the story is a man named Haman, who seeks revenge against the Jewish people because Esther’s cousin Mordecai refuses to bow down to him.

In Esther 3:1-6, Haman convinces the king to issue a decree ordering the extermination of all Jews in the kingdom. However, Esther risks her own life to reveal Haman’s plot to the king and save her people. In Esther 7:9-10, Haman is executed, and the Jews are saved.

This story is seen as an example of the importance of standing up for what is right and the power of faith and courage. It also highlights the dangers of prejudice and hatred and the importance of working towards unity and understanding.

Conclusion

The Bible contains many stories of revenge, each with its own context and significance. While revenge is often seen as a negative trait, these stories can offer valuable lessons about justice, forgiveness, and the consequences of our actions.

It’s important to remember that revenge can be a dangerous and harmful cycle, and that forgiveness and compassion are often more powerful and healing. As we reflect on these stories, may we strive to seek justice and reconciliation in a way that promotes peace and love.

Pastor duke taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.