Biblical Context:
The account of Manoah's offering and the angel's departure is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 13. This narrative is part of the larger account of the birth of Samson, one of the judges of Israel. Manoah and his wife, who was barren, were visited by the Angel of the LORD, who announced that they would have a son who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines.

Scriptural Account:
In Judges 13:15-23, Manoah, the father of Samson, seeks to honor the Angel of the LORD who had appeared to him and his wife with a message of hope and deliverance. Manoah, not fully understanding the divine nature of their visitor, offers hospitality and requests to prepare a meal. The Angel of the LORD instructs Manoah to prepare a burnt offering to the LORD instead.

Manoah then takes a young goat and a grain offering and presents them on a rock to the LORD. As the flames rise from the altar, the Angel of the LORD performs a wondrous act: "And as the flame blazed up from the altar toward heaven, the Angel of the LORD ascended in the flame. When Manoah and his wife saw this, they fell facedown to the ground" (Judges 13:20). This miraculous departure confirms the divine nature of their visitor and the truth of his message.

Theological Significance:
The offering and the angel's departure hold deep theological significance. The Angel of the LORD is often understood in Christian theology as a theophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The acceptance of the offering and the miraculous ascent in the flame signify divine approval and the sacredness of the message delivered to Manoah and his wife.

The narrative emphasizes the importance of obedience and reverence in worship. Manoah's initial misunderstanding of the Angel's identity reflects human limitations in comprehending divine encounters. However, his willingness to offer a sacrifice demonstrates faith and submission to God's will.

Symbolism and Typology:
The rock upon which the offering is made can be seen as a symbol of Christ, the Rock of Salvation. The ascent of the Angel in the flame may typify the resurrection and ascension of Christ, pointing to the ultimate deliverance He provides. The entire episode foreshadows the miraculous nature of God's interventions in human history, culminating in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

Lessons for Believers:
Manoah's encounter with the Angel of the LORD teaches believers about the importance of recognizing and responding to God's presence in their lives. It encourages faithfulness and trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. The narrative also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to work beyond human understanding to fulfill His divine purposes.