The author of "The Religion of Israel," speaking of Samson, says:
"The story of Samson and his deeds originated in a _Solar myth_, which was afterwards transformed by the narrator into a _saga_ about a mighty hero and deliverer of Israel. The very _name_ 'Samson,' is derived from the Hebrew word, and means 'Sun.' The hero's flowing locks were originally the _rays of the sun_, and other traces of the old myth have been preserved."[73:5]
"The story of Samson is simply a solar myth. In some of the features of the story the original meaning may be traced quite clearly, but in others the myth can no longer be recognized. The exploits of some Danite hero, such as Shamgar, who 'slew six hundred Philistines with an ox-goad' (Judges iii. 31), have been woven into it; the whole has been remodeled after the ideas of the prophets of later ages, and finally, it has been fitted into the framework of the period of the Judges, as conceived by the writer of the book called after them."[73:6]
"The myth that lies at the foundation of this story is a description of the sun's course during the six winter months. The god is gradually encompassed by his enemies, mist and darkness. At first he easily maintains his freedom, and gives glorious proofs of his strength; but the fetters grow stronger and stronger, until at last he is robbed of his crown of rays, and loses all his power and glory. _Such is the Sun in Winter._ But he has not lost his splendor forever. Gradually his strength returns, at last he reappears; and though he still seems to allow himself to be mocked, yet the power of avenging himself has returned, and in the end he triumphs over his enemies once more."[73:7]
Other nations beside the Hebrews and Greeks had their "mighty men" and lion-killers. The Hindoos had their Samson. His name was Bala-Rama, the "_Strong Rama_." He was considered by some an incarnation of Vishnu.[73:8]
Captain Wilford says, in "Asiatic Researches:"
"The _Indian_ Hercules, according to Cicero, was called _Belus_. He is the same as _Bala_, the brother of Crishna, and both are conjointly worshiped at Mutra; indeed, they are considered as one Avatar or Incarnation of Vishnou. _Bala_ is represented as a stout man, _with a club in his hand_. He is also called _Bala-rama._"[74:1]