Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context:The account of Manoah's wife informing her husband is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 13. This narrative is set during a time when the Israelites were under Philistine oppression. The account introduces the parents of Samson, one of the most renowned judges of Israel. Scriptural Account: In Judges 13:2-3 , we read, "Now there was a man from Zorah named Manoah, from the clan of the Danites, whose wife was barren and had no children. 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.'" This divine encounter marks the beginning of a significant event in Israel's history, as the child to be born would be Samson, a deliverer of Israel. The Angel's Message: The Angel of the LORD provides specific instructions to Manoah's wife regarding the child she will bear. Judges 13:4-5 states, "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 over his head, because 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." Manoah's Wife's Response: Upon receiving this extraordinary message, Manoah's wife goes to inform her husband. Judges 13:6-7 records her words: "Then the woman went to her husband and said, 'A man of God came to me. His appearance was like that of the Angel of God, very awesome. I did not ask him where he was from, and he did not tell me his name. But he said to me, "Behold, you will conceive and give birth to a son. Now drink no wine or strong drink, and do not eat anything unclean, because the boy will be a Nazirite to God from the womb until the day of his death."'" Manoah's Reaction: Manoah, upon hearing his wife's report, prays to the LORD for further guidance. Judges 13:8 states, "Then Manoah prayed to the LORD, 'Please, O Lord, let the Man of God You sent us come again to teach us how to raise the boy who is to be born.'" This demonstrates Manoah's desire for divine instruction and his faith in God's promise. Significance: The narrative of Manoah's wife informing her husband highlights several key themes. Firstly, it underscores the role of women in God's plan, as Manoah's wife is the initial recipient of the divine message. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's instructions, as the child's Nazirite vow is central to his future role. Lastly, it illustrates the faith and cooperation between Manoah and his wife as they seek to fulfill God's will for their family and nation. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, this account reflects God's sovereignty and His ability to work through ordinary individuals to accomplish His purposes. The appearance of the Angel of the LORD signifies divine intervention and foreshadows the miraculous nature of Samson's life and mission. The account also serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in the lives of believers, as exemplified by Manoah and his wife. |