Commentary on Judges 13:9

Judges 13:9 states: "And God heard the voice of Manoah; and the angel of God came again unto the woman as she sat in the field: but Manoah her husband was not with her."

Introduction

This verse introduces a pivotal moment leading to the birth of Samson, a judge of Israel. It highlights God's responsiveness to prayer, the concept of divine visitation, and the roles of both Manoah and his wife.

Theological Insights

• Divine Communication:

  As noted by Matthew Henry, the visitation of the angel symbolizes God's willingness to engage with humanity. Here, God not only hears Manoah's cry but also sends the angel to convey critical information directly.

• Importance of Prayer:

  Albert Barnes emphasizes the significance of Manoah's prayer. This verse reaffirms the biblical principle that God listens attentively to the prayers of the faithful. Manoah’s entreaty for guidance demonstrates an exemplary posture of reliance on God's wisdom.

• Gender Roles in Divine Work:

  Adam Clarke notes the intriguing dynamic presented in this passage where the woman first receives divine revelation before her husband. This scenario speaks to the inclusivity of God's communication and His willingness to work through any willing vessel.

Contextual Analysis

This event occurs within a narrative that marks Israel's cycle of sin, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. The angel's reappearance signifies hope and a new beginning for the Israelites. The couple's willingness to seek God actively sets the stage for their significant role in the redemptive history tied to the birth of Samson.

Character Study: Manoah

• Manoah's Faith:

  Manoah’s earnest cry shows his desperation and humility. According to Henry, his inquiry for further guidance reflects a deep faith but also a sense of bewilderment regarding God’s purposes. This captures the essence of a believer—a mix of faith and uncertainty.

• Responsibility as a Parent:

  Manoah's role as a father is central to his character. Barnes points out that the responsibility of raising a son endowed with divine purpose was a heavy burden, emphasizing the need for God's guidance through prayer.

The Role of the Woman

The woman in this account is initially given the revelation of her son’s future. This aspect highlights the important role of women in God’s plan for salvation. Clarke argues that this narrative illustrates God's unconventional methods of choosing vessels for His divine messages.

God's Initiative and Human Response

• God's Sovereignty:

  This scripture reflects the sovereignty of God in planning Israel's deliverance. God initiates the encounter, showing that His will can unfold in unexpected ways, as highlighted by Henry.

• Human Responsibility:

  While God initiates communication, it is imperative that Manoah and his wife respond adequately. The character of faith and obedience must accompany divine encounters, a theme elaborated upon by Barnes.

Conclusion

Judges 13:9 encapsulates profound truths for believers today. It reminds us of God’s attentiveness to our prayers and the importance of pursuing Him diligently in every aspect of our lives. The unfolding narrative not only sets the stage for Samson’s birth but also illustrates the broader themes of faith, divine purpose, and human responsibility, serving as a source of encouragement for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars alike.