5935 riddles

Enigmatic or allegorical statements whose meaning must be searched for or revealed by God. They may be compared with other forms of obscure communication and contrasted with clear messages. Riddles are associated with proverbs and parables as means of teaching wisdom.

Samson’s riddle

The riddle posed Jdg 14:5-14 In the ancient world, riddles were popular at feasts and special occasions.

The riddle solved Jdg 14:15-20

Further examples of riddles

Riddles and dreams See also Ge 37:5-9 Joseph’s dreams; Ge 40:5-8 dreams of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker; Ge 41:1-8 Pharaoh’s dreams; Da 2:1-3 Nebuchadnezzar’s dream

Four mysteries Pr 30:18-19

The eagles and the vine Eze 17:2-8,11-15

The writing on the wall Da 5:5-9,25-28

Riddles in the ministry of Jesus Christ Jn 16:25 See also Jn 2:19 the destruction of the temple; Jn 16:16-19 Jesus Christ predicts his death and resurrection in enigmatic form.

The riddle of the number of the beast Rev 13:18; Rev 17:7-9

Riddles and prophetic communication

Riddles contrasted with clear messages Nu 12:6-8 See also Dt 34:10; 1Co 13:12; 1Pe 1:10-11

Messianic prophecies cast as riddles Ge 49:8-11; Isa 11:1; Isa 53:2

Riddles as means of teaching wisdom

Riddles explained by the wise Ps 49:3-4 See also 1Ki 10:3 pp 2Ch 9:2; Da 5:12

Riddles and proverbs Pr 1:1-6 See also Pr 6:6-8; Pr 26:1-2,7-10

Riddles and parables Ps 78:2 See also Jdg 9:7-15; 2Sa 12:1-4; Isa 5:1-2; Jer 13:1-7; Mt 13:34-35

See also