Judges 13:15
*“Then Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, ‘Please let us detain you so that we may prepare a young goat for you.’” (v.15)* In this portion of the story, Manoah—a man from the tribe of Dan who lived around 1100 BC—addresses the angel of the LORD with reverent hospitality. Manoah’s desire is to extend a meal and fellowship to this divine messenger, which not only reflects the cultural courtesy of the time, but also hints at a deeper recognition that this visitor carries the presence and authority of God. Their home region of Zorah, near the western edge of the territory of Dan, was a frontier area during the age of the Judges, a time marked by cycles of Israel’s rebellion and deliverance.
Manoah’s words reveal a heart eager to serve God’s messenger. In the broader narrative, Manoah does not yet fully understand that the “man” speaking with him is an angelic being (Judges 13:16). Still, his instinct is to respond in a way similar to other faithful individuals in Scripture who showed hospitality toward God’s representatives. The angel of the LORD frequently appears in pivotal moments in Israel’s history, sometimes ascending to heaven after completing His earthly mission (Judges 13:20) citeturn0file4. By seeking to share a meal, Manoah’s request underlines an important biblical principle that our devotion to God can often be expressed through our willingness to generously serve others.
Further, Manoah’s invitation links to a broader scriptural theme that one day, in the New Testament, Jesus would share fellowship meals with people to symbolize divine relationship and grace (Mark 2:15-17). The angel’s presence here foreshadows that God moves intimately and personally among His people. Manoah’s reaction reminds us of how believers are called to respond with humble reverence when encountering God’s work, even if the full magnitude of His presence is not immediately understood.
Manoah’s humble gesture of hospitality to the angel of the LORD foreshadows God’s special attention on his family and the coming birth of Samson, emphasizing that wholehearted devotion can open the way to God’s mighty plans.
This verse shows how a simple act of hospitality becomes a key moment in God’s unfolding plan of deliverance for Israel.
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.
- Acts 13:13-15 meaning. The team sails north to Pamphylia, where John Mark abandons them to go home to Jerusalem. Paul and Barnabas go further inland into the province of Galatia, to the capital city of Pisidian Antioch. There, they visit a synagogue, and Paul is invited to preach.