Judges 13:11

KJV

And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, [Art] thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I [am].

KJV (with Strong's)

And Manoah {H4495} arose {H6965}, and went {H3212} after {H310} his wife {H802}, and came {H935} to the man {H376}, and said {H559} unto him, Art thou the man {H376} that spakest {H1696} unto the woman {H802}? And he said {H559}, I am.

Complete Jewish Bible

Manoach got up, followed his wife, went to the man and said to him, "Are you the man who spoke to the woman?" He answered, "I am."

Berean Standard Bible

So Manoah got up and followed his wife. When he came to the man, he asked, “Are you the man who spoke to my wife?” “I am,” he said.

American Standard Version

And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I am.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Judges 13:11 marks a crucial juncture in the unfolding narrative of Samson’s miraculous conception and birth, as Manoah, the expectant father, directly engages with the divine messenger who had previously appeared solely to his wife. This pivotal verse illuminates Manoah's earnest and responsible pursuit of clarity and confirmation regarding the extraordinary divine announcement and the true identity of the celestial visitor, setting the stage for further revelation concerning the future deliverer of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Judges 13:11 is embedded within the opening narrative of Samson, the last of the major judges, and serves as a direct response to Manoah's earnest prayer for further divine instruction. Preceding this verse, the Angel of the Lord had appeared to Manoah's barren wife, announcing the miraculous birth of a son who would be a Nazirite from birth and initiate Israel's deliverance from Philistine oppression ([Judges 13:3-5](/judges/13-3 "Judges 13:3-5 - Angel's First Appearance and Nazirite Vow")). Unaware of the messenger's identity and seeking confirmation and guidance, Manoah prayed for the "man of God" to return ([Judges 13:8](/judges/13-8 "Judges 13:8 - Manoah's Prayer for the Angel's Return")). God, in His grace, answers this prayer, and the angel reappears while Manoah's wife is in the field, prompting her to quickly summon her husband. This verse captures Manoah's immediate and direct engagement with the messenger, marking a transition from indirect revelation to a face-to-face encounter, crucial for the subsequent instructions regarding Samson's upbringing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative of Judges 13 unfolds during a period of intense Philistine domination over Israel, a recurring cycle of apostasy and oppression detailed throughout the book ([Judges 13:1](/judges/13-1 "Judges 13:1 - Israel's Oppression by Philistines")). The Philistines, a powerful seafaring people, had established a strong presence along the coastal plain, exerting significant control over Israelite territories. Within this context of national subjugation, the personal plight of Manoah and his wife, their barrenness, resonated deeply with ancient Near Eastern cultural values, where fertility was seen as a divine blessing and barrenness a potential curse or sign of disfavor. The miraculous birth of a child to a previously barren couple, a recurring biblical motif (e.g., Isaac, Samuel, John the Baptist), signaled divine intervention and the initiation of a significant new phase in God's redemptive plan. Manoah's leading role in the conversation also reflects the patriarchal structure of Israelite society, where the husband typically served as the family's spiritual and practical head.
* **Key Themes:** Judges 13:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Judges and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Initiative and Grace**, as God, unprompted by Israel's repentance, takes the first step to raise a deliverer, demonstrating His faithfulness even amidst human unfaithfulness. Manoah's earnest questioning and the angel's direct response highlight the theme of **Divine Confirmation and Clarity**, assuring both Manoah and the reader of the authenticity and authority of God's word, especially regarding a pivotal divine plan. The encounter also subtly introduces the theme of **The Identity of the Divine Messenger**, as Manoah grapples with understanding who this "man" truly is, foreshadowing the later revelation of the "Angel of the Lord" as a manifestation of God Himself ([Judges 13:22](/judges/13-22 "Judges 13:22 - Manoah's Realization of the Angel's Identity")). Finally, the verse underscores the theme of **Parental Responsibility in Raising a Godly Offspring**, as Manoah seeks specific instructions for the Nazirite upbringing of Samson, a calling that would set him apart for God's service from birth ([Numbers 6](/numbers/6 "Numbers 6 - The Law of the Nazirite")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Arose (Hebrew, _qum'_):** The verb "arose" signifies not merely a physical standing but often denotes a purposeful, decisive action. Here, Manoah "arose" to pursue the messenger, indicating his immediate and earnest response to his wife's news and his deep desire for confirmation and understanding. It conveys a sense of urgency and determination in seeking divine truth.
* **Man (Hebrew, _'ish'_):** Manoah's repeated use of "the man" (הָאִישׁ, _ha'ish_) highlights his initial lack of understanding regarding the messenger's true identity. While seemingly a simple descriptor, this term sets up the narrative tension that culminates in Manoah's realization that he has encountered not merely a human prophet but a divine being, the "Angel of the Lord" ([Judges 13:22](/judges/13-22 "Judges 13:22 - Manoah's Realization")).
* **I am (Hebrew, _'ani hu'_):** The Hebrew phrase אֲנִי הוּא (_'ani hu'_) is a simple yet profoundly significant declarative statement. While it can function as a straightforward affirmation ("It is I" or "I am he"), in various biblical contexts, especially when spoken by God, it carries immense theological weight, echoing the divine self-revelation of YHWH as "I AM THAT I AM" ([Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'")). Here, the messenger's concise "I am" serves as an authoritative and unequivocal confirmation of his identity as the one who previously spoke to Manoah's wife, leaving no room for doubt and subtly hinting at his divine nature.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Manoah arose, and went after his wife":** This clause emphasizes Manoah's immediate and decisive action. Upon hearing his wife's urgent summons and the incredible news of the messenger's reappearance, Manoah does not hesitate. His swift movement signifies his earnestness and his responsible desire to verify the divine message and receive further instruction directly.
* **"and came to the man, and said unto him, [Art] thou the man that spakest unto the woman?":** Manoah's direct approach and pointed question reveal his primary concern: confirming the identity of the messenger and the veracity of his wife's account. He seeks personal verification of the divine encounter, not out of skepticism, but out of a desire for clarity and a deep sense of responsibility regarding the extraordinary news. This question also sets up the dramatic revelation of the messenger's true nature.
* **"And he said, I [am].":** The messenger's terse, authoritative response, "I am," provides immediate and unequivocal confirmation. This simple declaration not only affirms his identity as the one who previously appeared to Manoah's wife but also carries a subtle yet profound theological weight, echoing divine self-declarations throughout Scripture. It is a statement of absolute truth and presence, leaving no room for doubt in Manoah's mind.

#### Literary Devices
Judges 13:11 employs several literary devices to enhance its impact and convey deeper meaning. The primary device is **Dialogue**, which serves to advance the plot, reveal character, and build tension. Manoah's direct question and the messenger's concise reply create a dramatic exchange that is both immediate and revelatory. The **Repetition** of the phrase "the man" by Manoah underscores his initial human perspective and limited understanding of the messenger's identity, contrasting with the later divine revelation. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing** in the messenger's simple "I am" statement, subtly hinting at his divine nature, which will be fully revealed later in the chapter ([Judges 13:22](/judges/13-22 "Judges 13:22 - Manoah's Realization")). Furthermore, the scene functions as a **Divine Encounter**, a common biblical motif where humans interact with supernatural beings, often leading to a profound shift in understanding or a specific divine commission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judges 13:11 underscores the profound theological truth of God's active involvement in human affairs, even when His people are in a state of spiritual decline. Manoah's earnest prayer for clarification and God's gracious response demonstrate divine condescension – God's willingness to meet humanity where they are, providing clear guidance for His redemptive purposes. This encounter highlights the importance of seeking divine wisdom and confirmation, particularly when confronted with extraordinary circumstances or significant life callings. The identity of the messenger, though initially veiled, points to the consistent presence of the "Angel of the Lord" throughout Israel's history, often understood as a pre-incarnate manifestation of Christ, bridging the gap between the divine and human realms to deliver crucial messages and initiate salvation. This divine confirmation ensures the legitimacy of Samson's miraculous birth and his future role as a deliverer, grounding God's plan in undeniable revelation.

* [Genesis 18:1-15](/genesis/18-1 "Abraham's Encounter with the Lord")
* [Luke 1:11-20](/luke/1-11 "Zechariah's Encounter with Gabriel")
* [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "God's Revelation Through His Son")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Judges 13:11 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, particularly regarding our posture towards divine revelation and guidance. Manoah's immediate and earnest pursuit of the "man" exemplifies a responsible and humble heart eager to understand God's will. In a world saturated with information and competing voices, this verse calls us to cultivate a similar diligence in seeking God's truth, whether through His written Word, prayer, or the counsel of godly wisdom. It reassures us that God is not distant but is willing to provide clarity and confirmation when we genuinely seek Him, especially concerning significant life decisions or callings. Just as Manoah sought instruction for raising Samson, we are reminded of our responsibility to nurture those under our care—be they children, disciples, or community members—in alignment with God's purposes, recognizing that divine plans often unfold through ordinary people responding to extraordinary encounters. This passage encourages us to be attentive to God's unexpected messengers and to trust in His sovereign plan, even when its full scope is not immediately apparent.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Manoah's immediate action to "arise and go after his wife" challenge or affirm your own responsiveness to divine promptings?**
* **In what areas of your life are you currently seeking God's confirmation or clearer guidance, and what steps are you taking to pursue it?**
* **How does the Angel's simple "I am" statement encourage you to trust in the authority and truthfulness of God's word, even when it seems extraordinary?**

### FAQ
**Who was "the man" Manoah encountered?**

Answer: While Manoah initially refers to him simply as "the man" (Judges 13:11), the narrative later explicitly identifies him as the "Angel of the Lord" (Judges 13:16, 21). This figure is often understood in biblical theology as a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ, a divine messenger who frequently appears in the Old Testament to deliver God's messages and execute His will. Manoah and his wife ultimately realize the divine nature of their visitor, stating, "We shall surely die, because we have seen God!" ([Judges 13:22](/judges/13-22 "Judges 13:22 - Manoah's Realization of the Angel's Identity")).

**Why did Manoah need to confirm the message, rather than simply trusting his wife?**

Answer: Manoah's desire for confirmation was not necessarily a sign of distrust in his wife, but rather a responsible and earnest pursuit of divine clarity regarding an extraordinary and life-altering announcement. The message concerned a miraculous birth and a unique Nazirite calling for their son, who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines. Given the immense significance of this prophecy, Manoah sought direct divine instruction and verification, as was often the practice in biblical accounts of major divine interventions. His prayer in [Judges 13:8](/judges/13-8 "Judges 13:8 - Manoah's Prayer for the Angel's Return") specifically asks for the man to return "and teach us what we are to do for the child who is to be born," indicating a desire for guidance, not skepticism. God graciously honored his request.

**What is the significance of the messenger's response, "I am"?**

Answer: The messenger's concise "I am" (Hebrew: _'ani hu'_) serves as a direct and authoritative affirmation of his identity as the one who previously spoke to Manoah's wife. Beyond simple identification, this phrase carries profound theological weight in the Bible, echoing God's self-revelation to Moses as "I AM THAT I AM" in [Exodus 3:14](/exodus/3-14 "Exodus 3:14 - God's Name 'I AM'"). While not explicitly equating the messenger to YHWH here, it subtly hints at his divine authority and truthfulness, preparing the reader for the later revelation of his true nature as the Angel of the Lord, a divine manifestation. In the New Testament, Jesus frequently uses "I AM" statements to assert His divine identity and authority (e.g., [John 8:58](/john/8-58 "John 8:58 - Jesus' 'I AM' Statement")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Judges 13:11, particularly the encounter between Manoah and the divine messenger, finds rich Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. The "Angel of the Lord" who appears to Manoah and his wife is widely understood by scholars as a pre-incarnate manifestation of Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity. This divine messenger, who delivers the good news of a miraculous birth and a deliverer for Israel, foreshadows the ultimate divine messenger, Jesus Himself, who came to announce and accomplish the ultimate deliverance from sin and death. The Angel's simple yet authoritative declaration, "I am," resonates deeply with Jesus' own powerful "I AM" statements in the Gospel of John, where He declares His divine identity and unique relationship with the Father (e.g., "[I am the bread of life](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")", "[I am the light of the world](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")", "[Before Abraham was, I am](/john/8-58 "John 8:58 - Jesus' 'I AM' Statement")"). Just as the Angel provided clear guidance for Samson's upbringing, Jesus, as the Word made flesh ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), provides the ultimate revelation of God's will and the path to eternal life. Samson, though flawed, was raised up by God to begin Israel's deliverance, but it is Christ who perfectly fulfills the role of the ultimate deliverer, the true Nazirite who was set apart from birth, sacrificing Himself to take away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) and establishing an eternal kingdom. Thus, this ancient encounter points forward to the coming of the Messiah, the divine Son who would fully reveal God and accomplish His redemptive purposes.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.