Judges 13:2
We learn in Judges 13:2 that, “*There was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren and had borne no children*” (v.2). This brief statement introduces a pivotal family in the history of ancient Israel during the time of the judges, a period generally dated between 1375 and 1050 B.C. citeturn0file18 The man’s name is Manoah, and he lives in the town of Zorah, located near the Sorek Valley about fifteen miles west of modern-day Jerusalem. Being from the tribe of Dan aligns him with one of Israel’s twelve tribes—Samson will later arise from this same tribe. citeturn0file10
In this verse, we see a recurring biblical theme: a woman who is barren and unable to bear children. Much like Sarah (Genesis 11:30) or Hannah (1 Samuel 1:2), Manoah’s wife finds herself childless at a time when childbearing was especially significant to continuing the family lineage in Israel. This detail underscores the miraculous nature of what God will soon accomplish. He frequently chooses unexpected circumstances—like barrenness—to display His power and to raise up deliverers for His people.
Zorah’s mention draws attention to the fact that God can and does work through small, out-of-the-way places, using ordinary households to bring about His purposes. Manoah’s family, unknown until this moment, is about to step into a remarkable role. Their upcoming child will be Samson, destined to be one of the most notable judges in Israel’s turbulent era, bearing the unique calling of a Nazirite from birth (Judges 13:5). Though this verse only sets the stage, it foreshadows how the Lord intervenes in impossible situations to deliver His people.
She was barren, but God would soon intervene to bring forth a deliverer 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:
- Acts 13:26-31 meaning. Paul tells his audience that Jesus was the promised Savior sent by God. He fulfilled the prophecies and promises made by God in the Old Testament. The leaders of Israel rejected Jesus and put Him to death, which was also prophesied in the Old Testament. God raised Jesus back to life. Many witnesses saw Jesus after He resurrected and have been spreading the news ever since.
- Judges 1:22-26 meaning. The tribes Ephraim and Manasseh, with the Lord’s assistance, goes up against Bethel, previously known as Luz. They use a local man to find the city’s entrance, conquer Bethel, and spare the man’s family. The man then relocates to the land of the Hittites, where he builds a new city and names it Luz.
- Judges 4:23-24 meaning. These final verses mark the conclusion of the battle against Jabin, king of Canaan. After Sisera’s defeat and death, God continues to subdue Jabin’s forces, leading to Israel’s increasing dominance over him. Over time, the Israelites press harder against Jabin until they fully destroy his rule, securing their freedom from Canaanite oppression.