Judges 13:2

Now there was a man from Zorah named Manoah, from the clan of the Danites, whose wife was barren and had no children.

Study Bible

Now there was a man
This phrase introduces a new narrative, signaling a shift in focus to a specific individual. In Hebrew storytelling, such introductions often mark the beginning of a significant divine intervention. The phrase sets the stage for God's miraculous work, reminding us that God often chooses ordinary people to fulfill His extraordinary purposes.

from Zorah
Zorah was a town in the territory of Dan, located near the border of Philistine lands. Its mention here is significant, as it situates the account geographically and culturally. Zorah's proximity to the Philistines foreshadows the tension and conflict that will arise, highlighting the need for a deliverer in Israel.

from the family of the Danites
The Danites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the son of Jacob and Bilhah. Historically, the tribe of Dan struggled to secure its allotted inheritance, often facing opposition from surrounding peoples. This context underscores the need for divine intervention and deliverance, as the tribe was in a precarious position.

whose name was Manoah
The name Manoah means "rest" or "peace" in Hebrew. This is ironic, given the turbulent times in which he lived. Manoah's name may symbolize the peace and rest that God intends to bring to Israel through the forthcoming events. It also serves as a reminder that God knows each of us by name and has a purpose for our lives.

His wife was barren
Barrenness was a significant social and personal challenge in ancient Israel, often seen as a source of shame or divine disfavor. However, in the biblical narrative, God frequently uses barren women to bring about His purposes, demonstrating His power to bring life where there is none. This sets the stage for a miraculous birth, emphasizing God's sovereignty and grace.

and had no children
This phrase reinforces the previous statement, emphasizing the completeness of the couple's childlessness. In the biblical context, children were considered a blessing from God, and the lack thereof was a profound trial. This detail heightens the anticipation of God's intervention, as He often works through human weakness to display His strength and faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manoah
A man from the tribe of Dan, living in Zorah. He is the father of Samson, a significant figure in Israel's history.

2. Zorah
A town in the territory of Dan, located in the Shephelah region of ancient Israel. It is significant as the birthplace of Samson.

3. The Danites
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Dan, the son of Jacob and Bilhah. The tribe is known for its struggles to secure a permanent inheritance in the Promised Land.

4. Manoah's Wife
Although unnamed in the text, she plays a crucial role as the mother of Samson. Her barrenness is a central theme, highlighting God's intervention.

5. Barrenness
A condition of being unable to bear children, often seen in the Bible as a significant challenge that God can overcome to fulfill His purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Human Weakness
God often chooses to work through human weakness and limitations, such as barrenness, to demonstrate His power and fulfill His purposes.

Faith in God's Promises
The account encourages believers to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible, as God is faithful to fulfill His word.

The Role of Prayer and Patience
The accounts of barren women in the Bible often involve prayer and waiting on God, teaching us the importance of persistent prayer and patience in our spiritual journey.

God's Purpose in Our Lives
Just as God had a specific purpose for Samson, He has a unique plan for each of us, which may involve unexpected paths and challenges.

Community and Support
The account highlights the importance of community and support within the family of faith, as seen in the shared struggles and triumphs of biblical families.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Manoah and his wife challenge our understanding of God's timing and intervention in our lives?

2. In what ways can we draw strength from the accounts of other biblical figures who faced similar challenges, such as barrenness or waiting on God's promises?

3. How can we apply the lessons of faith and patience from this passage to our current life situations?

4. What role does community play in supporting individuals and families facing difficult circumstances, as seen in the account of Manoah and his wife?

5. How can we discern and embrace God's unique purpose for our lives, even when it involves unexpected challenges or paths?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:21
Isaac prays for Rebekah, who is barren, and God grants his request, leading to the birth of Esau and Jacob. This parallels the divine intervention in the lives of barren women.

1 Samuel 1:5-20
Hannah's account of barrenness and her prayer to God, resulting in the birth of Samuel, mirrors the theme of God opening the womb of a barren woman for His purposes.

Luke 1:7, 13
Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, is also barren until God intervenes, showing a consistent biblical theme of God working through seemingly impossible situations.