Judges 13:13

So the angel of the LORD answered Manoah, "Your wife is to do everything I told her.

Study Bible

So the Angel of the LORD
The phrase "Angel of the LORD" is significant in the Old Testament, often understood as a theophany, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The Hebrew term "mal'ak YHWH" indicates a messenger of God, but the context often suggests a divine presence. This appearance to Manoah and his wife underscores the importance of the message and the divine intervention in the birth of Samson, a deliverer for Israel. Historically, the Angel of the LORD appears at pivotal moments, guiding and directing God's people.

answered Manoah
The act of answering indicates a direct communication between the divine and human realms. Manoah, Samson's father, seeks understanding and guidance, reflecting a common biblical theme of seeking God's will. The Hebrew root "anah" implies a response or reply, suggesting that God is attentive to the inquiries of His people. This interaction highlights the relational aspect of God, who listens and responds to those who earnestly seek Him.

Your wife is to do
This directive emphasizes obedience and the role of Manoah's wife in the divine plan. The Hebrew verb "asah" means to do or to make, indicating action and compliance. In the context of biblical narratives, obedience to God's instructions is crucial for the fulfillment of His promises. Manoah's wife is entrusted with a significant responsibility, reflecting the broader biblical theme of God using individuals to accomplish His purposes.

everything I told her
The phrase underscores the completeness and importance of following divine instructions. The Hebrew word "kol" means all or everything, indicating that partial obedience is insufficient. The Angel of the LORD had previously given specific instructions regarding the Nazirite vow for the child to be born, which were to be followed meticulously. This highlights the theme of faithfulness and the importance of adhering to God's commands to ensure His blessings and purposes are realized.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manoah
The father of Samson, Manoah is a Danite who seeks guidance from God regarding the upbringing of his promised son.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Manoah's wife, announcing the birth of Samson and providing specific instructions for his upbringing.

3. Manoah's Wife
Though unnamed in the text, she is the mother of Samson and receives the initial revelation from the Angel of the LORD.

4. Zorah
The town in the territory of Dan where Manoah and his family live.

5. Samson
The future judge of Israel, whose life and mission are foretold by the Angel of the LORD.

Teaching Points

Divine Instructions
God's guidance often comes with specific instructions that require obedience and faithfulness. Just as Manoah and his wife were given clear directives, we too must seek and adhere to God's will in our lives.

Faith in God's Promises
Manoah's request for further instruction demonstrates a desire to faithfully fulfill God's plan. We should also seek to understand and act upon God's promises in our lives.

Role of Parents
The responsibility given to Manoah and his wife highlights the importance of parental guidance in nurturing children according to God's purposes.

God's Sovereignty
The miraculous announcement of Samson's birth reminds us of God's sovereign control over history and His ability to bring about His plans through unexpected means.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Manoah's response to the Angel of the LORD's message reflect a desire for obedience, and how can we apply this attitude in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the Nazirite vow, as described in Numbers 6, inform our understanding of Samson's life and mission?

3. How can we, like Manoah and his wife, seek God's guidance in raising children or mentoring others in faith?

4. What are some modern-day "Nazirite vows" or commitments that Christians might make to dedicate themselves to God's service?

5. How does the account of Samson's birth encourage us to trust in God's timing and plans, even when they seem improbable or delayed?

Connections to Other Scriptures

The account of Samson's birth parallels the birth accounts of other significant biblical figures, such as Isaac and John the Baptist, where divine intervention and specific instructions are given.

The Nazirite vow, which Samson is to follow, is detailed in Numbers 6, providing context for the instructions given by the Angel of the LORD.

The Angel of the LORD's appearances in the Old Testament often signify important divine messages, as seen in the accounts of Hagar, Gideon, and others.