שופטים, פרק ט״ז, פסוק כ״ב

Samson's lowest point in Philistine captivity also marks the beginning of a profound turning point. While in prison, his hair begins to grow back, quietly setting the stage for his final act of heroism.

The exact nature of this hair growth is a subject of discussion. Some view it as a slow, natural process that simply took place after his head was shaved [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, another perspective suggests that the growth was rapid and miraculous, beginning the very moment the shaving was finished. This unnatural speed explains why the Philistines, despite knowing that his secret lay in his hair, did not have the chance to notice the change and shave him again [מלבי״ם]. As it grew, the hair returned exactly to its previous state, forming the very same seven locks that had been cut off [רד״ק, מצודת דוד].

Samson himself believed that as his hair returned, God would restore his strength, prompting him to eventually position himself between the pillars of the building [רד״ק]. Yet, his immense power was never a natural physical result of the hair itself. Rather, it was a miraculous gift given for maintaining his vow to God. He had lost this power as a direct punishment for his sins, specifically allowing himself to be led astray by his eyes and surrendering his secret to his enemies, which caused God to depart from him.

The physical regrowth of his hair serves as a symbol of the time he spent in captivity, using those dark days to achieve complete repentance. Ultimately, when Samson cried out from between the pillars, God answered him and restored his strength because of this sincere repentance and prayer, not merely because his hair had physically grown back [אברבנאל].