Simson verslaat de Filistijnen met het kaakbeen van een ezel 1558 - 1579

Philips Galle’s engraving depicts Simson's triumph over the Philistines with the jawbone of an ass, a potent symbol of the underdog's unexpected strength. The jawbone, an unlikely weapon, embodies the idea that even the most humble objects can become instruments of great power. Consider the hero wielding this crude instrument. It's a motif that recurs throughout history, echoing David with his sling against Goliath. The use of such simple, unexpected weapons taps into a deep psychological reservoir. It reminds us that ingenuity and resourcefulness can overcome brute force. Observe how the image conveys an intense, almost frenzied energy. The sheer number of fallen enemies and Simson's dynamic pose evoke a primal, visceral response. This raw display of power resonates with our subconscious understanding of strength and survival. The past is never truly dead; it is not even past. Just as the jawbone reappears, so too does this tale continue to inspire us.