Judges 13:16
The narrative in Judges 13:16 occurs during the period of the Judges (roughly 1375–1050 BC), a time when Israel often fell into cycles of disobedience and cried out for deliverance. Manoah, from the tribe of Dan, was unaware that the mysterious messenger speaking to him was an angel of the LORD. As the text says: *“The angel of the LORD said to Manoah, ‘Though you detain me, I will not eat your food, but if you prepare a burnt offering, then offer it to the LORD.’ For Manoah did not know that he was the angel of the LORD.”* (v.16) This event took place near the region of Zorah, in the foothills west of Jerusalem, where Manoah and his wife would soon learn of God’s special plan for their son, Samson.
In this verse, the angel of the LORD instructs Manoah to redirect his hospitality toward an act of worship (the burnt offering), emphasizing reverence for God rather than the entertainment of a guest. Manoah’s confusion—he does not yet realize he is speaking with a divine messenger—highlights the humility and hiddenness of God’s plan. Many interpret “the angel of the LORD” here as a manifestation of God’s own presence, sometimes referred to as a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus, the ultimate Deliverer who will come centuries later (John 1:1–14). The text underscores that proper devotion and worship belong only to the LORD, who alone is worthy of sacrifice and praise.
This verse illustrates that God’s extraordinary messages can arrive in the most ordinary contexts, pointing humanity toward ultimate reliance on 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 4:12-16 meaning. This passage describes the climactic battle between Barak’s forces and Sisera’s army. Deborah urges Barak to act, affirming that God has already secured victory. As Barak leads his men into battle, God intervenes, routing Sisera’s forces. Sisera flees on foot while his entire army is destroyed.
- Acts 13:16-25 meaning. Paul preaches through the Hebrew scriptures (The Old Testament), tracing God’s work and promises toward the Jewish People. God chose the Fathers of Israel, freed the Israelites and gave them the Promised Land, led them through judges and kings, such as David, a man who obeyed God. God brought a Savior to Israel from the line of David: Jesus. John the Prophet and Baptizer prepared the way for Jesus, preaching repentance and the greatness of the coming Savior.
- Genesis 14:13-16 meaning. When Abram learned of Lot’s capture, he set out in pursuit with his allies. They pursued them a considerable distance, then defeated the kings and rescued Lot and the other captives as well as his possessions.