Judges 13:3

The angel of the LORD appeared to the woman and said to her, "It is true that you are barren and have no children; but you will conceive and give birth to a son.

Study Bible

And the Angel of the LORD
This phrase introduces a significant figure in the Old Testament, often understood as a theophany, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The Hebrew term "mal'ak YHWH" is used here, which can mean "messenger" or "angel." In the context of Judges, this figure is not merely an angelic being but is often equated with God Himself, as seen in the reverence and worship He receives. This appearance signifies a divine intervention in the history of Israel, emphasizing God's active role in guiding and delivering His people.

appeared to the woman
The appearance to the woman, who is later identified as the wife of Manoah, is significant. In a patriarchal society, divine messages were often delivered to men, yet here, God chooses to reveal His plan to a woman. This highlights the inclusivity of God's call and His recognition of the faith and importance of women in His divine plan. The Hebrew word "ra'ah" (appeared) suggests a visible manifestation, indicating the tangible reality of God's presence and message.

and said to her
The act of speaking directly to the woman underscores the personal nature of God's communication. The Hebrew verb "amar" (said) is used, which conveys not just the act of speaking but also the intention of conveying a message of importance. This direct communication reflects God's desire for a personal relationship with His people and His willingness to engage with them in their circumstances.

Behold
The word "behold" is translated from the Hebrew "hinneh," which serves as an attention-grabbing device. It is used to draw the listener's focus to the significance of the message that follows. This word often precedes divine revelations or important announcements, indicating that what follows is of great importance and requires careful attention and reflection.

you are barren
This phrase acknowledges the woman's current state, which in ancient Israelite culture was often seen as a source of shame or divine disfavor. The Hebrew word "aqar" (barren) is used, which denotes a lack of ability to conceive. By addressing her barrenness, the Angel of the LORD acknowledges her personal struggle and sets the stage for a miraculous intervention, demonstrating God's power to transform human limitations.

and have borne no children
This reiteration of her childlessness emphasizes the depth of her situation. The Hebrew phrase "lo yalad" (have borne no children) underscores the completeness of her barrenness. In the cultural context, children were seen as a blessing from God, and the lack thereof could be perceived as a curse. This statement sets the stage for the miraculous promise that follows, highlighting God's ability to bring life and hope where there was none.

but you will conceive
The promise of conception is a turning point in the narrative. The Hebrew verb "harah" (conceive) indicates the beginning of a new life. This promise is a direct intervention by God, showcasing His sovereignty over life and His ability to fulfill His purposes through miraculous means. It is a message of hope and restoration, affirming God's power to change circumstances and fulfill His promises.

and give birth to a son
The specific promise of a son is significant in the biblical context, as sons were often seen as carriers of the family lineage and inheritors of God's promises. The Hebrew word "ben" (son) is used, which not only signifies a male child but also carries connotations of strength and continuity. This promise foreshadows the birth of Samson, who would become a deliverer for Israel, highlighting God's ongoing plan of salvation and deliverance for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger often seen as a theophany, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, who delivers God's message to His people.

2. The Woman (Manoah's Wife)
Although unnamed in the text, she is the wife of Manoah and the mother of Samson. Her barrenness and subsequent miraculous conception highlight God's intervention.

3. Manoah
The husband of the woman, who later interacts with the Angel of the LORD, seeking guidance on how to raise the promised child.

4. Zorah
The town in the territory of Dan where Manoah and his wife lived, setting the stage for the birth of Samson, a future judge of Israel.

5. Samson
The promised son, who would become one of Israel's judges, known for his extraordinary strength and his role in delivering Israel from the Philistines.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention in Human Impossibility
God often works in situations that seem impossible to human understanding, demonstrating His sovereignty and power.

The Role of Faith in Receiving God's Promises
Manoah's wife received the message with faith, a reminder that faith is crucial in accepting and acting upon God's promises.

God's Purpose in Our Lives
Just as Samson was set apart for a specific purpose, believers are called to seek and fulfill God's purpose in their lives.

The Importance of Obedience
The instructions given to Manoah and his wife about raising Samson highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands.

God's Faithfulness Across Generations
The recurring theme of God granting children to barren women underscores His faithfulness and the continuity of His promises through generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appearance of the Angel of the LORD in Judges 13:3 compare to other biblical instances of divine messengers?

2. What can we learn from the faith of Manoah's wife in receiving the promise of a son despite her barrenness?

3. In what ways does the account of Samson's birth foreshadow the birth of other significant biblical figures?

4. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the instructions given to Manoah and his wife in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's intervention in a seemingly impossible situation. How did it strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18:10-14
The promise of a son to Sarah, who was also barren, parallels the announcement to Manoah's wife, emphasizing God's power to bring life where there is none.

Luke 1:13-17
The announcement of John the Baptist's birth to Zechariah and Elizabeth, who were also childless, mirrors the divine intervention seen in Judges 13:3.

Isaiah 7:14
The prophecy of a virgin conceiving and bearing a son, which points to the miraculous nature of God's promises and their fulfillment.