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

So the woman went and told her husband
In the cultural context of ancient Israel, it was customary for a wife to report significant events to her husband, who was the head of the household. This reflects the patriarchal structure of society at the time. The woman, later identified as Manoah's wife, demonstrates obedience and respect for her husband by sharing the encounter. This action also sets the stage for the involvement of Manoah in the divine plan, highlighting the importance of family unity in God's purposes.

A man of God came to me
The term "man of God" is often used in the Old Testament to describe prophets or individuals who are messengers of God, such as Moses (Deuteronomy 33:1) and Elijah (1 Kings 17:18). This indicates that the visitor was perceived as a holy and authoritative figure. The phrase suggests a divine encounter, preparing the reader for the revelation of God's plan for Samson's birth and mission.

His appearance was like the angel of God, exceedingly awesome
The description of the visitor's appearance as "like the angel of God" suggests a theophany, a visible manifestation of God to humans. The term "exceedingly awesome" conveys a sense of overwhelming majesty and fear, often associated with divine encounters (e.g., Daniel 10:5-6). This aligns with other biblical instances where angels appear in radiant and awe-inspiring forms, such as the angel at Jesus' tomb (Matthew 28:3).

I did not ask him where he came from
The woman's omission of questioning the visitor's origin reflects a common biblical theme where divine messengers are not interrogated about their heavenly origins, emphasizing the mystery and authority of God's messengers. This also parallels other biblical narratives where individuals are struck by awe and do not question the divine presence, such as Gideon's encounter with the angel of the Lord (Judges 6:11-24).

and he did not tell me his name
In ancient Near Eastern culture, knowing someone's name was often associated with having power or authority over them. The angel's withholding of his name signifies the divine authority and mystery of the encounter. This is reminiscent of Jacob's wrestling with the angel, where the angel does not reveal his name (Genesis 32:29). It underscores the idea that God's ways and messengers are beyond human comprehension and control.

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.