Old Testament
Judges 13:3
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The angel of the LORD appeared to the woman and said, "I know you've been unable to have children, but you're going to become pregnant and give birth to a son.
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And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.
What Judges 13:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 13:3, the angel of the LORD visits a woman who has been unable to have children. This moment is significant because it highlights God's intervention in her life. The angel reassures her that despite her barrenness, she will conceive and give birth to a son. This promise not only brings hope to the woman but also sets the stage for the birth of Samson, a key figure in Israel's history. The message emphasizes that God can bring about miraculous changes in seemingly hopeless situations. It also reflects the theme of divine purpose, as the child born will have a special role in delivering Israel from its enemies. The encounter illustrates the importance of faith and trust in God's promises, even when circumstances appear bleak. The angel's announcement serves as a reminder that God sees our struggles and has a plan for each of us, often in ways we cannot foresee.
How to apply Judges 13:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's timing and plans, especially when facing difficult situations. It reminds us that even when things seem impossible, God can bring about change and fulfill His promises. We should remain open to His guidance and purpose in our lives.
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 13:3
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Key themes
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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 13:3 mean?
Judges 13:3 describes the angel of the LORD appearing to a barren woman, promising her that she will conceive and give birth to a son. This moment signifies God's intervention in her life and foreshadows the birth of Samson, who will play a crucial role in Israel's history.
What is the significance of the angel's message in Judges 13:3?
The angel's message in Judges 13:3 is significant because it brings hope to a woman who has been unable to have children. It emphasizes God's ability to bring about miraculous changes and highlights the theme of divine purpose in the birth of Samson.
What is the context of Judges 13:3?
Judges 13:3 occurs in a time when Israel was facing oppression, and the birth of Samson is pivotal for their deliverance. The verse sets the stage for God's plan to raise a leader who will help free Israel from its enemies.
How does Judges 13:3 relate to faith?
Judges 13:3 relates to faith by illustrating that even in seemingly hopeless situations, trusting in God's promises can lead to miraculous outcomes. The woman's response to the angel's message reflects the importance of faith in God's ability to fulfill His word.
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