What is the meaning of Judges 13:15? “Please stay here,” • Manoah’s immediate reaction shows genuine hospitality and reverence. He does not want the heavenly visitor to depart too quickly, echoing Abraham’s plea, “Please let my lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass your servant by” (Genesis 18:3). • The request also displays a hunger for further revelation. Staying longer would give Manoah more time to understand the divine message about the child who would become Samson. Compare the two disciples on the road to Emmaus urging Jesus, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening” (Luke 24:29). • Scripture consistently commends welcoming the messengers of God. Hebrews 13:2 reminds believers, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, • Manoah addresses the visitor as “angel of the LORD,” yet later verses reveal he still grapples with the full identity of his guest (Judges 13:16–22). Encounters with the Angel of the LORD often end in the realization that one has met God Himself in visible form (Exodus 3:2–6; Genesis 32:30). • The phrase underscores that God takes the initiative to appear to ordinary people. Just as Gideon once heard from “the angel of the LORD” in Judges 6:11–22, Manoah and his wife now stand on holy ground, even if they do not entirely grasp it at first. • By recounting this detail, the text affirms the literal reality of such divine visitations; they are not dreams or symbols but historical encounters that advance God’s redemptive plan. “and we will prepare a young goat for you.” • Offering a meal—especially a young goat—signals respect and covenant fellowship in the ancient Near East. Abraham hurried to choose “a choice calf” for his angelic visitors (Genesis 18:7), and Gideon prepared “a young goat” before the Angel of the LORD (Judges 6:19). • Manoah’s intent goes beyond mere hospitality; a young goat is suitable for a peace offering (Leviticus 3:6–7). Though Manoah initially thinks of it as food, the angel will redirect it into an offering to the Lord (Judges 13:16). • The gesture also reflects faith. Sacrificing an animal from one’s flock carries real cost, yet Manoah gladly invests it because he trusts the messenger’s promise about the coming child. summary Manoah’s invitation, his address to the Angel of the LORD, and his offer of a young goat together illustrate reverent hospitality, unfolding recognition of divine presence, and willing sacrifice. The verse models how believers respond when God draws near: urge Him to linger, honor His messenger, and give generously in anticipation of His promised work. |
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