Judges 13:6

So the woman went and told her husband, "A man of God came to me. His appearance was like the angel of God, exceedingly awesome. I did not ask him where he came from, and he did not tell me his name.

Study Bible

Then the woman went and said to her husband
This phrase introduces us to the unnamed wife of Manoah, who plays a pivotal role in the narrative of Samson's birth. The Hebrew word for "woman" here is "אִשָּׁה" (ishah), which can mean wife or woman, emphasizing her role within the family structure. Her immediate action to inform her husband reflects the cultural and spiritual dynamics of the time, where family decisions and revelations were shared within the household. This also highlights her obedience and respect for her husband, aligning with the biblical model of marriage.

A man of God came to me
The term "man of God" is often used in the Old Testament to describe prophets or messengers sent by God. The Hebrew phrase "אִישׁ הָאֱלֹהִים" (ish ha-Elohim) signifies someone who is divinely appointed and carries the authority of God. This indicates that the message she received was of divine origin, and it underscores the importance of the encounter. The woman's recognition of the visitor as a "man of God" shows her spiritual discernment and awareness of God's workings.

His appearance was like that of the Angel of God
The description of the visitor's appearance as "like that of the Angel of God" suggests a supernatural presence. The Hebrew word for "angel" is "מַלְאָךְ" (mal'akh), which means messenger. This indicates that the visitor was not an ordinary man but a divine messenger, possibly a theophany or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, as some conservative theologians suggest. The comparison to the "Angel of God" highlights the awe-inspiring and holy nature of the encounter.

exceedingly awesome
The phrase "exceedingly awesome" conveys the overwhelming and majestic presence of the visitor. The Hebrew word "מוֹרָא" (mora) can be translated as fear or awe, indicating a profound reverence and respect. This reflects the common biblical theme that encounters with the divine often evoke a sense of fear and wonder, reminding us of God's holiness and power.

I did not ask him where he was from
This admission by Manoah's wife shows her humility and the overwhelming nature of the encounter. In ancient Near Eastern culture, knowing someone's origin was important for understanding their identity and authority. Her failure to inquire about his origin suggests that she was so captivated by the divine presence that such questions seemed irrelevant or inappropriate.

and he did not tell me his name
Names in the biblical context often carry significant meaning and reveal character or purpose. The fact that the visitor did not reveal his name adds to the mystery and divine nature of the encounter. In the Bible, God's name is often withheld or revealed selectively, emphasizing His sovereignty and the sacredness of His identity. This lack of disclosure invites faith and trust in God's plan, even when all details are not fully understood.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Woman (Manoah's Wife)
She is the wife of Manoah and the mother of Samson. Her encounter with the Angel of the Lord sets the stage for the birth of Samson, a future judge of Israel.

2. Manoah
The husband of the woman, who later seeks confirmation and guidance from God regarding the message delivered by the Angel of the Lord.

3. The Angel of the Lord
A divine messenger who appears to Manoah's wife, delivering the prophecy of Samson's birth and his Nazirite vow.

4. Zorah
The town in the territory of Dan where Manoah and his wife lived.

5. The Prophecy of Samson's Birth
The event where the Angel of the Lord announces the birth of Samson, who is to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines.

Teaching Points

Divine Encounters
God often communicates His plans through unexpected means and people. We should remain open to His guidance, even when it comes in surprising forms.

Faith and Obedience
Manoah's wife demonstrates faith by accepting the message without question. We are called to trust God's word and act in obedience, even when details are unclear.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
The Bible highlights the significant roles women play in God's redemptive history. Manoah's wife is a key figure in the account of Samson, reminding us of the value and importance of women in God's work.

The Awe of God's Presence
The description of the Angel as "exceedingly awesome" reminds us of the reverence due to God and His messengers. We should approach God with awe and respect.

Seeking Confirmation
Manoah's later request for confirmation shows the importance of seeking clarity and understanding in our walk with God. It is wise to seek God's guidance in prayer and through His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appearance of the Angel of the Lord to Manoah's wife compare to other angelic visitations in the Bible, and what can we learn from these encounters?

2. In what ways does Manoah's wife's response to the Angel's message demonstrate faith, and how can we apply this to our own lives when we receive guidance from God?

3. How does the role of Manoah's wife in this account challenge or affirm your understanding of the roles of women in the Bible and in the church today?

4. What does the description of the Angel as "exceedingly awesome" teach us about the nature of God and how we should approach Him in our daily lives?

5. How can we seek confirmation and clarity from God when we receive a message or calling, and what biblical principles should guide us in this process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 16
The appearance of the Angel of the Lord to Hagar, which parallels the divine encounter experienced by Manoah's wife.

Luke 1
The announcement of John the Baptist's birth to Zechariah and Elizabeth, which mirrors the divine announcement of Samson's birth.

Hebrews 13:2
The exhortation to show hospitality to strangers, as some have entertained angels without knowing it, reflecting the unexpected nature of divine encounters.