Biblical Context:
Manoah, a member of the tribe of Dan, is best known as the father of Samson, one of the most prominent judges of Israel. The account of Manoah praying for guidance is found in the Book of Judges, specifically in Judges 13. This narrative occurs during a time when the Israelites were under Philistine oppression due to their disobedience to God.

Scriptural Account:
The account begins with the Angel of the LORD appearing to Manoah's wife, who is barren, and announcing that she will conceive and bear a son. This child is to be a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God, and he will begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines. The Angel provides specific instructions regarding the Nazirite vow, including abstaining from wine, strong drink, and unclean food (Judges 13:3-5).

Upon hearing his wife's account of the divine visitation, Manoah seeks further guidance from God. Judges 13:8 records his prayer: "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 prayer reflects Manoah's earnest desire for divine instruction and his recognition of the importance of raising the child according to God's will.

Divine Response:
God honors Manoah's request, and the Angel of the LORD appears again to his wife. She quickly informs Manoah, who then meets the Angel. Manoah inquires about the proper way to raise the child and the specifics of the boy's future mission. The Angel reiterates the instructions given to Manoah's wife, emphasizing adherence to the Nazirite vow (Judges 13:12-14).

Manoah, still unaware of the Angel's true identity, offers hospitality and prepares a young goat for a meal. The Angel declines to eat but instructs Manoah to offer a burnt offering to the LORD. As Manoah offers the sacrifice, the Angel performs a wondrous act, ascending in the flame of the altar, revealing His divine nature. Manoah and his wife fall on their faces in awe and fear, realizing they have seen a manifestation of God (Judges 13:15-20).

Theological Significance:
Manoah's prayer for guidance underscores the importance of seeking divine wisdom in fulfilling God's purposes. His humility and willingness to follow God's instructions highlight the role of parental responsibility in nurturing children according to God's plan. The narrative also illustrates God's faithfulness in providing guidance to those who earnestly seek Him.

The appearance of the Angel of the LORD, often understood as a theophany or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, emphasizes the divine involvement in the unfolding of Israel's history and the preparation for Samson's role as a judge. This encounter serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His active participation in the lives of His people.

Cultural and Historical Insights:
The Nazirite vow, as outlined in Numbers 6, was a special commitment to God involving abstinence from wine, avoiding contact with the dead, and not cutting one's hair. This vow signified a life set apart for God's service. Manoah's adherence to these instructions for Samson reflects the cultural and religious practices of ancient Israel and the significance of vows in expressing devotion to God.

Manoah's interaction with the Angel of the LORD also reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of hospitality and the reverence shown to divine messengers. His initial lack of recognition of the Angel's identity highlights the mysterious nature of divine encounters in the biblical narrative.