Riddles were a popular pastime in the ancient world. They depend on language’s ambiguity. They communicate on two levels at the same time…. We [therefore] can say that it intentionally deceives. Essential to riddles is the setting of a trap. They endeavor to mislead by offering special language that masquerades as common language.
1 They are supposed to be based on universal situations or concepts. They are supposed to have within them some hints as to the correct answer. They are not supposed to be based on personal experiences.
12 And Samson said to them, “Let me now put a riddle to you. If you can tell me what it is, within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty linen garments and thirty changes of clothes,