Day of Hilula
Samson the Mighty
כ״ד בתמוז
Gaza, Philistia
In Jewish tradition, the day of a tzadik's passing — the 'Hilula' — is not a day of mourning, but a day of spiritual elevation and awakening. According to the teachings of Kabbalah, on this day the soul of the tzadik ascends to a higher realm, and their light and merits shine upon the world. Many Jews mark the day through Torah study, reciting Tehillim, lighting a memorial candle, and good deeds for the elevation of the soul — to connect with the tzadik's path and qualities.
His Life and Legacy
Samson is one of the great symbols of heroism in the people of Israel. His figure left a deep imprint upon the Bible and Jewish culture, and became a source of inspiration for art, literature, and poetry. His cry, “Let me die with the Philistines,” stood at the center of rabbinic discussions concerning sanctification of the Divine Name and self-sacrifice. In the tradition of the Sages, he was also associated with the figure of Messiah son of Joseph, who fights and falls.
"Let me die with the Philistines"