Manoah's wife, though unnamed in the biblical text, plays a significant role in the narrative of the Book of Judges, specifically in chapters 13 to 16. She is the mother of Samson, one of the most renowned judges of Israel. Her account is pivotal in understanding the divine orchestration behind Samson's birth and mission.

Biblical Account

The account of Manoah's wife is found in Judges 13. The Israelites were under Philistine oppression for forty years due to their disobedience to God. In this context, the Angel of the LORD appeared to Manoah's wife, who was barren, and announced that she would conceive and bear a son. The angel instructed her to abstain from wine, strong drink, and unclean food, as her son was to be a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines.

Judges 13:3-5 states: "The Angel of the LORD appeared to the woman and said to her, 'Behold, you are barren and have no children, but you will conceive and give birth to a son. Now please be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, and do not eat anything unclean. For behold, you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the boy will be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hand of the Philistines.'"

Character and Faith

Manoah's wife is depicted as a woman of faith and obedience. Her response to the angelic visitation demonstrates her belief in God's promise. She relayed the message to her husband, Manoah, who then prayed for further instruction. When the Angel of the LORD appeared again, she quickly fetched Manoah, showing her eagerness to follow God's will.

Her faith is further highlighted when Manoah, after realizing they had seen the Angel of the LORD, feared they would die. She reassured him, saying, "If the LORD had meant to kill us, He would not have accepted a burnt offering and a grain offering from our hands, nor shown us all these things or told us this" (Judges 13:23). Her calm and reasoned response reflects her trust in God's purpose and protection.

Role in Samson's Life

Manoah's wife adhered to the angel's instructions, setting the stage for Samson's Nazirite vow. Her obedience ensured that Samson was consecrated to God from the womb, fulfilling the divine plan for his life. Although the narrative focuses more on Samson's exploits, the foundation laid by his mother's faith and obedience is crucial to understanding his role as a judge of Israel.

Theological Significance

The account of Manoah's wife underscores themes of divine intervention, faith, and obedience. Her encounter with the Angel of the LORD is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to bring life and purpose out of barrenness. Her faith and actions serve as a model of trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem insurmountable.

In the broader biblical narrative, Manoah's wife is one of several women who, through divine intervention, bear children who play significant roles in God's redemptive history. Her account parallels those of Sarah, Rebekah, and Hannah, highlighting God's power to fulfill His promises through unexpected means.