The answer is: 1100

Jdg 16:5

Delilah certainly knew how to cash in on her tricky relationship with Samson! According to Judges 16:5, the offer on the table was a hefty sum of 1,100 silver shekels from each Philistine lord. If you're wondering how lucrative that was, considering there were five lords, Delilah was promised a sum equivalent to about 5,500 silver shekels. That's big bucks back then and shows just how badly the Philistines wanted to take down the strongman of Israel.

This narrative raises questions about trust, manipulation, and betrayal, which can resonate even today. Delilah's motives may appear as simple self-interest, focusing on wealth, but it also dives into themes of love and loyalty. After all, Samson, a figure known for divine strength, succumbed to human fragility in the face of seduction.

Interesting trivia for you—Samson's story, particularly his relationship with Delilah, often echoes in literature and popular culture even today. His adventures symbolize strength and vulnerability, a cautionary tale about letting one's guard down, especially in the arms of betrayal. The word “Delilah” has become synonymous with betrayal in various cultural references, so we've really felt the impact of this story transcending time.

Understanding the dynamics at play between Samson and Delilah helps emphasize the power imbalances that occur in relationships and how they can lead to devastating consequences!