MPV Commentary

Manoah said to the angel, "Please stay with us until we can prepare a kid as an offering." The stranger declined Manoah's hospitality and reminded him that if they were going to offer meat, it should be presented to the Lord (Jud 13:6). Manoah needed this instruction because he intended to offer the prepared food to the angel, not recognizing his true identity as God. The angel's response was similar to Jesus' when asked about eternal life (Mt 19:17).

Manoah asked the angel, "What is your name?" This question elicited clear evidence of the angel's divine nature – in his name, which means "secret" or "wonderful," and in the miraculous flame that accepted their sacrifice.

The woman gave birth to a son and named him Samson (Jud 13:24). The birth of this child, who was destined for great national service, made him an object of special interest and instruction from the very beginning.

As the Spirit of the Lord began to move Samson at times, it likely kindled in his heart a spirit of patriotism and devotion. This occurred while he was living in Eshtaol, a free city that stood on the border between Judah and Dan.