Old Testament
Judges 13:15
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Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, "Please stay a while — let us prepare a young goat for you to eat."
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And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, I pray thee, let us detain thee, until we shall have made ready a kid for thee.
What Judges 13:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Manoah, the father of Samson, encounters the angel of the LORD and expresses a desire to honor him by preparing a meal. He asks the angel to stay a while so they can prepare a young goat, which was a common offering in that culture. This moment highlights Manoah's hospitality and respect for the divine messenger. It also reflects the importance of meals in ancient Near Eastern culture, where sharing food was a way to build relationships and show honor. Manoah's request indicates his eagerness to connect with the angel and perhaps to learn more about the message he brings regarding his future son, Samson. This interaction sets the stage for further revelations about Samson's destiny and the role he will play in Israel's history. Manoah's actions demonstrate a blend of reverence and practical hospitality, showing how one can honor God through acts of kindness and service.
How to apply Judges 13:15 to your life
We can learn from Manoah's example of hospitality and respect for others, especially in spiritual matters. Taking time to honor those who bring us important messages or guidance can strengthen our relationships and deepen our understanding of God's plans for us.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samson's story: A Son Is Promised (Judges 13:1–23)
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Samson
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Judges 13:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Judges
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 13:15 mean?
Judges 13:15 describes Manoah asking the angel of the LORD to stay so he can prepare a meal for him. This reflects Manoah's hospitality and respect for the divine messenger, highlighting the cultural significance of sharing food.
What is the significance of Manoah's request in Judges 13:15?
Manoah's request to prepare a young goat for the angel signifies his desire to honor the messenger and engage in a relationship. It emphasizes the importance of hospitality in ancient cultures and sets the stage for further revelations about his son Samson.
What cultural practices are reflected in Judges 13:15?
Judges 13:15 reflects the cultural practice of hospitality in the ancient Near East, where offering food was a way to honor guests and build relationships. Manoah's preparation of a meal for the angel highlights this tradition.
What can we learn from Manoah in Judges 13:15?
From Manoah's actions in Judges 13:15, we learn the importance of hospitality and respect for others, especially in spiritual contexts. His eagerness to honor the angel encourages us to value and acknowledge those who bring us significant messages.
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