Samson's parents, Manoah and his wife, are significant figures in the biblical narrative found in the Book of Judges. They are primarily known for their role in the birth and upbringing of Samson, one of the most famous judges of Israel. Their account is detailed in Judges 13, where they are depicted as devout and obedient servants of God.

Manoah

Manoah, a member of the tribe of Dan, is introduced in Judges 13:2. He is described as a man from Zorah, a town in the territory of Dan, which is located near the Philistine border. Manoah's name means "rest" or "quiet," reflecting perhaps a life of peace before the tumultuous events surrounding his son. Although not much is detailed about his personal life or character, Manoah is portrayed as a faithful and concerned husband and father. He seeks divine guidance and is attentive to the instructions given by the angel of the LORD regarding the upbringing of his son.

Manoah's Wife

The wife of Manoah, whose name is not mentioned in the biblical text, plays a crucial role in the narrative. She is initially described as barren, a condition that was often seen as a source of shame and sorrow in ancient Israelite society. However, her barrenness sets the stage for a miraculous intervention by God. In Judges 13:3, the angel of the LORD appears to her, announcing that she will conceive and bear a son. This divine encounter highlights her faith and obedience, as she carefully follows the angel's instructions regarding the Nazirite vow that her son is to observe.

The Angelic Announcement

The angel of the LORD's appearance to Manoah's wife is a pivotal moment in the account. The angel instructs her to abstain from wine, strong drink, and unclean food, as her son is to be a Nazirite from birth (Judges 13:4-5: "Now please be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, and not to eat anything unclean. For behold, you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor shall come over his head, because the boy will be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hand of the Philistines."). This vow signifies a life set apart for God's service, and it underscores the special purpose that Samson is to fulfill.

Manoah's Prayer and the Second Visit

Upon hearing his wife's account of the angelic visitation, Manoah prays to the LORD, asking for further guidance on how to raise the child (Judges 13:8). God answers his prayer, and the angel of the LORD appears again, this time to both Manoah and his wife. Manoah seeks confirmation of the instructions and inquires about the future role of their son. The angel reiterates the importance of the Nazirite vow and emphasizes adherence to the divine commands (Judges 13:13-14).

The Sacrifice and Revelation

In an act of worship and reverence, Manoah offers a young goat as a burnt offering to the LORD. As the flames rise, the angel of the LORD ascends in the flame, revealing His divine nature. This miraculous event leaves Manoah and his wife in awe and fear, realizing they have seen a manifestation of God (Judges 13:19-22). Manoah expresses concern that they will die because they have seen God, but his wife reassures him, pointing out that the LORD's acceptance of their offering and the promise of a son indicate His favor and purpose for their lives.

The Birth of Samson

In accordance with the angel's prophecy, Manoah's wife gives birth to a son, whom they name Samson. The child grows, and the LORD blesses him, setting the stage for his future exploits as a judge and deliverer of Israel (Judges 13:24-25).

Samson's parents, through their faith and obedience, play a foundational role in the divine plan for Israel's deliverance from Philistine oppression. Their account exemplifies the themes of divine intervention, faithfulness, and the fulfillment of God's promises.