Bible Commentary on Judges 13:15

Judges 13:15 states: "And Manoah said unto the angel of the Lord, I pray thee, let us detain thee, until we shall have made ready a kid for thee." This passage serves as a dramatic and crucial moment in the narrative of Samson's birth and highlights the interaction between Manoah, his wife, and the angel of the Lord. Below is a gathered commentary drawing on insights from notable public domain commentaries including those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Contextual Overview

This chapter opens with the account of Israel's oppression by the Philistines, setting the stage for the birth of Samson, who is divinely ordained to deliver Israel from their enemies. The angel of the Lord visits Manoah and his wife, announcing the forthcoming birth of their son, who will begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines. In verse 15, Manoah's request to the angel to stay for a meal provides insight into his character, faith, and hospitality.

Commentary Insights

• 1. Manoah’s Character and Faith

  Manoah’s request reflects his reverence for the angel, recognizing the significance of the visit. Matthew Henry suggests that Manoah’s desire to serve the angel shows his understanding of the importance of divine visitation. He acknowledges the angel’s spiritual authority and wishes to honor him with a meal, indicative of his hospitality.

• 2. The Request for Detention

  Manoah's plea to detain the angel reveals an eagerness and desire to converse more with him. Albert Barnes points out that Manoah's hospitality parallels the biblical custom of offering hospitality to strangers, which is seen throughout scripture (cf. Hebrews 13:2). This moment emphasizes our duty to honor divine messengers and engage them in meaningful conversation.

• 3. Symbolism of the Kid

  The mention of preparing a kid (a young goat) for the angel symbolizes an offering, reflecting Manoah’s desire to give thanks and demonstrate reverence. Adam Clarke interprets this as an acknowledgment of God’s provision and blessings. It is reminiscent of sacrificial offerings in the Old Testament that signify gratitude and worship.

• 4. Theological Implications

  This passage sheds light on the communication between God and humanity. The request to detain the angel allows for a divine discourse that shapes Manoah's understanding of his role in the grand narrative of salvation history. Manoah’s instinct to offer food reflects a universal inclination to express gratitude to God for His intervention in human affairs.

Lessons Learned

Several vital lessons can be drawn from Judges 13:15:

• 1. The Importance of Hospitality: Manoah’s eagerness to entertain the angel embodies a biblical principle that emphasizes the significance of welcoming God’s messengers.
• 2. Reverence for the Divine: Manoah's conduct displays a proper attitude towards divine encounters. Treating God’s representatives with honor is a recurring theme respected throughout scripture.
• 3. Openness to Divine Revelation: Manoah’s persistence to detain the angel emphasizes the need for followers of God to seek understanding and wisdom from Him.
• 4. Communicating with God: The passage encourages believers to actively engage with God and His servants, fostering a deeper relationship and dependence on His guidance.

Conclusion

Judges 13:15 beautifully illustrates a potent moment of divine interaction, etching a narrative rich with themes of faith, hospitality, and reverence for the Holy. By analyzing the intentions and actions of Manoah and the angel of the Lord, believers can glean God's desire for relationship and communication with humanity. This biblical scenario invites pastors, students, theologians, and scholars to consider the nuances of divine-human interactions and the profound implications they hold for spiritual growth and communal faith practices.