Old Testament
Judges 13:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But he told me, 'You're going to become pregnant and have a son. Don't drink any wine or alcohol, and don't eat anything unclean, because the child will be a Nazirite to God from the day he's born until the day he dies.'"
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But he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb to the day of his death.
What Judges 13:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 13:7, an angel delivers a message to Manoah's wife, announcing that she will conceive and give birth to a son. This child is to be a Nazirite, which means he will be dedicated to God from birth and must follow specific vows, including abstaining from wine, strong drink, and anything considered unclean. The Nazirite vow signifies a special commitment to God, often involving a life of separation and holiness. This instruction emphasizes the importance of preparing for the child's unique role and the seriousness of the commitment involved. The angel's message highlights God's plan for this child, who is to be set apart for a significant purpose in Israel's history. The emphasis on dietary restrictions also reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and obedience to God's commands, which are crucial for fulfilling one's divine purpose.
How to apply Judges 13:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of living a life dedicated to God. Just as Samson was set apart, we too can commit ourselves to God by avoiding things that may lead us away from His purpose. Reflect on what you need to set aside to grow closer to Him.
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 13:7
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 13:7 mean?
Judges 13:7 conveys a message from an angel to Manoah's wife, informing her that she will give birth to a son who will be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth. The verse emphasizes the importance of abstaining from wine and unclean foods as part of the child's special commitment to God.
What is the Nazirite vow in Judges 13:7?
The Nazirite vow mentioned in Judges 13:7 is a commitment to God that involves specific restrictions, such as avoiding wine, strong drink, and unclean foods. This vow signifies a life set apart for holiness and service to God.
What is the significance of the dietary restrictions in Judges 13:7?
The dietary restrictions in Judges 13:7 highlight the importance of holiness and obedience to God's commands. They serve as preparation for the child's unique role and underscore the seriousness of the commitment involved in being a Nazirite.
How does Judges 13:7 relate to God's plan?
Judges 13:7 illustrates God's plan for a significant purpose in Israel's history through the child who will be born. The verse emphasizes that the child's dedication as a Nazirite is part of God's divine intention for his life and mission.
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