Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Manoah and his wife are significant figures in the biblical narrative, primarily known as the parents of Samson, one of the judges of Israel. Their account is found in the Book of Judges, chapters 13 to 16. Manoah's wife, though unnamed in the text, plays a crucial role in the divine announcement and upbringing of Samson, who would become a deliverer of Israel from the Philistines. Biblical Account: The account of Manoah and his wife begins in Judges 13, during a time when the Israelites were under Philistine oppression. The narrative introduces Manoah as a man from Zorah, of the tribe of Dan. His wife is described as barren, a condition that held significant social and personal implications in ancient Israelite culture. Divine Encounter: The turning point in their lives occurs when the Angel of the LORD appears to Manoah's wife. The angel announces that she will conceive and bear a son, instructing her to abstain from wine, strong drink, and unclean food, as her son is to be a Nazirite from birth. The angel declares, "He will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hand of the Philistines" (Judges 13:5). Upon hearing this news, Manoah's wife relays the encounter to her husband, who then prays for the angel to return and instruct them further. God answers Manoah's prayer, and the angel reappears to his wife. Manoah, upon meeting the angel, seeks confirmation and guidance on how to raise the promised child. The angel reiterates the instructions given to his wife, emphasizing the Nazirite vow. Sacrificial Offering: In an act of worship and reverence, Manoah offers a young goat on a rock to the LORD. As the flames rise, the angel ascends in the fire, revealing his divine nature. Manoah, realizing they have seen a divine being, fears for their lives, but his wife reassures 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). Birth and Upbringing of Samson: In due time, Manoah's wife gives birth to a son, whom they name Samson. The child grows, and the LORD blesses him. The Spirit of the LORD begins to stir him, marking the beginning of his role as a judge and deliverer of Israel. Significance: Manoah and his wife exemplify faith and obedience in the face of divine revelation. Their account highlights themes of divine intervention, the fulfillment of God's promises, and the importance of adhering to God's instructions. The couple's interaction with the Angel of the LORD underscores the sacredness of their mission and the special calling of their son, Samson. Legacy: Though Manoah and his wife are not central figures in the broader biblical narrative, their faithfulness and the miraculous birth of Samson have left a lasting impact. Their account serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to use ordinary people to fulfill His divine purposes. |