Riddle

Boyd’s Bible Dictionary:

(counsel). Oriental peoples fond of riddles. Hebrew riddles embraced proverbs (Prov. 1:6); oracles (Num. 12:8); songs (Psa. 49:4); parables (Ezek. 17:2); intricate sentences, questions, and problems (Judg. 14:12-14; 1 Kings 10:1; 2 Chron. 9:1; Dan. 8:23).

Concise Bible Dictionary:

A dark or hidden saying, as that which Samson put forth respecting the carcass of the lion (Judg. 14:12-19); and that of Ezekiel concerning the great eagle, but this is also called a “parable” (Ezek. 17:2). The word is chidah, and is also translated “dark saying, sentence, speech,” “hard question,” and once “proverb.”

From Manners and Customs of the Bible:

Judges 14:12. Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you.
The Hebrews, in common with all Oriental people, were very fond of riddles, and amused themselves with them, especially at ordinary meals and feasts. Even princes sometimes competed in their solution. The queen of Sheba tested Solomon’s wisdom with them. See 1 Kings 10:1, where the plural of the word which is here tendered riddle is translated “hard questions.”

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