Judges 13:11
In Judges 13:11 we read: *So Manoah arose and followed his wife, and when he came to the man, he said to him, “Are you the man who spoke to the woman?” And he said, “I am.” (v.11)*. Manoah’s wife had previously encountered a messenger from the LORD who foretold that she would conceive a special son (Judges 13:3-5). Here in verse 11, Manoah follows his wife’s direction, eager to meet the heavenly visitor himself. This episode most likely took place in the region of Zorah, an area located on the border of Danite territory, west of Jerusalem, sometime in the late period of the Judges (approximately the 12th century BC). Jews at this time were experiencing continual pressures from surrounding peoples, including the Philistines.
When Manoah asks, *“Are you the man who spoke to the woman?”*, his humble question reveals his desire to verify and understand God’s word. The messenger’s simple reply, *“I am”*, indicates divine authority. Many biblical commentators believe this “man” is the angel of the LORD, a unique messenger sometimes suggesting the very presence of God. Manoah’s keen interest in hearing the message firsthand underscores his responsibility as the spiritual leader of his household and his desire to confirm that God’s promise was true. Historically, Manoah would later be known as the father of Samson (Judges 13:24), one of Israel’s judges raised up by God to begin delivering His people from the Philistines.
This verse, though brief, speaks to the importance of recognizing God’s guidance and responding with faith. Manoah’s careful approach and respectful question demonstrate a heart willing to seek truth and direction from God. Much as Mary and Zechariah in Luke 1 asked clarifying questions of the angel visiting them, Manoah shows us that honest inquiry, when propelled by faith, can deepen our understanding of God’s plans.
Manoah’s faith-led curiosity foreshadows Samson’s significant role in Israel’s unfolding story by illustrating how God calls ordinary people to participate in His extraordinary redemption plan.
Manoah’s question and the angel’s answer show how God graciously confirms His word to those who seek Him.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Judges 1:11-15 meaning. Caleb offers his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever captures Kiriath-sepher. Othniel, Caleb’s nephew, successfully captures the city and marries Achsah. Achsah then asks Caleb for a field and additional water resources, and Caleb grants her the upper and lower springs.
- Judges 2:11-15 meaning. The Israelites fall into idolatry, abandoning the Lord to serve the Baals and Ashtaroth. This disobedience provokes God’s anger, leading to their oppression by enemies and severe distress, as He fulfills the warnings given to them.
- Judges 4:11 meaning. Judges 4:11 introduces Heber the Kenite. The details concerning Heber’s location and lineage in this verse foreshadow his involvement in the unfolding events of Sisera’s defeat, though it seems incidental at first.