Judges 13:4

Now please be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, and not to eat anything unclean.

Study Bible

Now please be careful
This phrase indicates a divine instruction given with urgency and importance. It reflects the seriousness of the message delivered by the angel of the Lord to Manoah's wife. The carefulness required suggests a need for vigilance and obedience, highlighting the sanctity of the vow that is to be undertaken.

not to drink wine or strong drink
This prohibition is part of the Nazirite vow, a special commitment to God described in Numbers 6:1-21. Wine and strong drink were common in ancient Israelite culture, often used in celebrations and religious rituals. Abstaining from them was a sign of dedication and separation unto God. This restriction foreshadows the life of Samson, who was to be set apart from birth for God's purposes.

and not to eat anything unclean
The dietary laws in Leviticus 11 outline what is considered clean and unclean for the Israelites. This command emphasizes the importance of ritual purity and obedience to God's law. It also underscores the distinctiveness of Samson's calling, as he was to be consecrated from the womb. This mirrors the call to holiness seen in other biblical figures, such as John the Baptist, who also lived under a Nazirite-like vow.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manoah's Wife
The unnamed wife of Manoah, who receives the angelic message about the birth of Samson. She is instructed to follow specific guidelines during her pregnancy.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Manoah's wife, delivering God's instructions and foretelling the birth of Samson, who will begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

3. Samson
The future son of Manoah and his wife, who is to be a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God with specific lifestyle restrictions.

4. Nazirite Vow
A special vow of consecration to God, which includes abstaining from wine, strong drink, and unclean foods, as well as not cutting one's hair.

5. Philistines
The oppressive rulers of Israel during this period, from whom Samson is destined to begin delivering Israel.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
The call to abstain from wine, strong drink, and unclean foods signifies a life set apart for God. Believers are encouraged to live distinctively, avoiding influences that can hinder their spiritual walk.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Manoah's wife's adherence to the angel's instructions demonstrates the importance of obedience in fulfilling God's purposes. Christians are reminded to follow God's guidance even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Preparation for God's Work
The restrictions placed on Manoah's wife were not just for her benefit but for the preparation of Samson's future role. Believers are called to prepare themselves and their families for God's work through disciplined living.

Faith in God's Promises
The angel's message required faith in God's promise of a son who would deliver Israel. Christians are encouraged to trust in God's promises, even when the fulfillment seems distant or impossible.

Impact of Parental Faithfulness
The faithfulness of Manoah's wife in following God's instructions had a direct impact on Samson's life and mission. Parents are reminded of their role in shaping their children's spiritual destinies through obedience and faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Nazirite vow in Numbers 6 relate to the instructions given to Manoah's wife in Judges 13:4, and what does this teach us about living a life set apart for God?

2. In what ways can believers today practice holiness and separation in their daily lives, similar to the restrictions given to Manoah's wife?

3. How does the account of Manoah's wife and the angel's message encourage us to trust in God's promises, even when they require personal sacrifice or seem unlikely?

4. What role does parental faithfulness play in the spiritual development of children, as seen in the life of Manoah's wife and Samson?

5. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's instructions in our own lives, and what are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are following His guidance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 6:1-21
This passage outlines the Nazirite vow, providing context for the restrictions given to Manoah's wife. It highlights the call to holiness and separation for God's purposes.

1 Samuel 1:11
Hannah's vow for her son Samuel mirrors the Nazirite dedication, showing a pattern of consecration for those set apart for God's work.

Luke 1:15
The angel's message to Zechariah about John the Baptist echoes the Nazirite-like dedication, emphasizing a life set apart for divine mission.