Topical Encyclopedia The wife of Manoah, though unnamed in the Scriptures, plays a significant role in the biblical narrative found in Judges 13. She is best known as the mother of Samson, one of the most prominent judges of Israel. Her account is a testament to faith, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises.Divine Encounter and Promise The account of Manoah's wife begins with a divine encounter. The Angel of the LORD appears to her, announcing that she, though barren, will conceive and bear a son. This son is to be a Nazirite from birth, dedicated to God, and he will begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines. The Angel instructs her, "Now please be careful not to drink wine or strong drink, and do not eat anything unclean" (Judges 13:4). Her immediate acceptance and adherence to these instructions demonstrate her faith and obedience. Role as a Faithful Messenger After receiving the message, Manoah's wife faithfully relays the encounter to her husband. Her description of the Angel as having an appearance "like the Angel of God, very awesome" (Judges 13:6) indicates her recognition of the divine nature of the visitor. Manoah, seeking further confirmation, prays for the Angel to return, which God graciously grants. The Angel reappears to the wife, underscoring her favored status and the trust placed in her by God. Wisdom and Discernment Manoah's wife exhibits wisdom and discernment throughout the narrative. When Manoah expresses fear after realizing they have seen the Angel of the LORD, she reassures him, saying, "If the LORD had intended to kill us, He would not have accepted a burnt offering and a grain offering from our hands, nor shown us all these things or told us this" (Judges 13:23). Her calm and reasoned response reflects her deep understanding of God's character and intentions. Mother of Samson The fulfillment of the Angel's promise comes to pass as she gives birth to Samson. Her role as his mother is pivotal, as she raises him according to the Nazirite vow, setting the foundation for his future as a judge of Israel. Her faithfulness in following God's instructions contributes to Samson's unique calling and mission. Legacy The wife of Manoah is remembered as a woman of faith, obedience, and wisdom. Her account highlights the importance of trust in God's promises and the impact of a godly mother's influence. Though her name is not recorded, her legacy is preserved through the life and deeds of her son, Samson, and her example continues to inspire those who seek to live in accordance with God's will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 13:10And the woman made haste, and ran, and showed her husband, and said to him, Behold, the man has appeared to me, that came to me the other day. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ... Christian Behavior The Pilgrim's Progress Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... part ii Resources How many wives did King David have? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did the Israelites have to abandon their foreign wives and children? | GotQuestions.org How many wives did Abraham have? | GotQuestions.org Wives: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wives of Ministers should be Exemplary Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Faithful to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Subject to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Love Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Obey Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Remain With Them for Life Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Reverence Them Wives: Good are a Blessing to Husbands Wives: Good are a Token of the Favour of God Wives: Good are Benevolent to the Poor Wives: Good are Diligent and Prudent Wives: Good are Praised by Husbands Wives: Good: Bring Honor on Husbands Wives: Good: Duty of, to Unbelieving Husbands Wives: Good: Secure Confidence of Husbands Wives: Good: should be Silent in the Churches Wives: Not to be Selected from Among the Ungodly Wives: should be Adorned with a Meek and Quiet Spirit Wives: should be Adorned with Good Works Wives: should be Adorned with Modesty and Sobriety Wives: should be Adorned: Not With Ornaments Wives: should Seek Religious Instruction from Their Husbands Related Terms |