In the painting Samson Betrayed by Delilah (1783), the Neoclassical artist Felice Giani captures one of the most dramatic and significant moments from the Old Testament, where money symbolizes betrayal and moral corruption. The artwork, housed in the National Gallery of Parma, depicts the famous biblical scene in which Delilah, having deceived Samson and discovered the secret of his strength, receives her payment for the betrayal.
The Biblical Context and Money as a Motive for Betrayal
The story of Samson and Delilah is told in the Book of Judges (16:5). Samson, renowned for his extraordinary strength granted by God, remains invincible as long as his hair is left uncut. The Philistines, enemies of both Samson and the Israelites, see an opportunity in Delilah, Samson’s lover, to bring him down. They offer her a large sum of money—1,100 silver shekels from each Philistine ruler—in exchange for discovering the secret of Samson’s strength and delivering him into their hands.
Blinded by greed, Delilah accepts the offer. In this story, money becomes the driving force behind her treacherous actions. Despite Samson’s love for her, Delilah easily succumbs to the temptation of wealth, highlighting how money can corrupt even the closest of relationships.
The Depiction of Money in Giani’s Work
In his painting, Giani focuses on the moment when Samson has been rendered vulnerable and powerless. His strength has been taken from him after his hair was cut, and he now lies helpless, ready to be captured by the Philistines. What makes this portrayal especially striking is the emphasis on money as the reward for Delilah’s betrayal.
Delilah is shown receiving her payment—a golden platter filled with coins, the spoils of her dishonorable actions. This iconographic choice underscores the central role of money in the betrayal, suggesting that her greed eclipsed any feelings of love or moral consideration. Giani masterfully captures this moment, turning money into a powerful visual symbol of corruption and deceit.
Money as a Destructive Force
Felice Giani’s Samson Betrayed by Delilah offers a profound reflection on the destructive power of money, showing how it can corrupt even the deepest human relationships. In this biblical episode, money is not just a medium of exchange; it becomes an instrument of betrayal, leading to Samson’s downfall and the victory of his enemies. The image of Delilah receiving the golden platter serves as a warning about the dangers of greed and how the pursuit of wealth can strip away moral integrity, resulting in the destruction of lives.