the same as מָנוֹחַ; rest; Manoach, an Israelite; Manoah.
Transliteration:Mânôwach
Pronunciation:maw-no'-akh
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H4495 (מָנוֹחַ, Mânôwach) is primarily a proper noun, specifically the name of Samson's father. Its semantic range is intrinsically linked to its etymological root, H4494 (מָנוֹחַ), which means "rest," "resting place," or "quietness." Thus, the name "Manoah" carries the inherent meaning of "rest" or "one who rests." While referring to an individual, the name itself evokes concepts of tranquility, repose, or a place of peace, a poignant characteristic given the tumultuous period in which he lived.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
H4495 occurs exclusively in the Book of Judges, primarily in chapters 13 and 14, identifying the father of Samson. Manoah, a man from Zorah of the tribe of Dan, is introduced as the husband of a barren woman, a common motif in biblical narratives preceding the birth of a divinely appointed deliverer.
The narrative unfolds with the appearance of the Angel of the Lord to Manoah's wife, announcing the miraculous birth of a son who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines and who was to be a Nazirite from birth ([[Judges 13:2-5]]). Upon hearing this, Manoah prays for the divine messenger to return, seeking further instruction regarding the child ([[Judges 13:8]]). The Angel reappears, reiterating the Nazirite vows and the child's destiny ([[Judges 13:9-14]]).
Manoah's interaction with the Angel highlights his piety and desire for clarity, though he initially fails to recognize the divine identity of his visitor. He offers a kid as a sacrifice, and as the flame ascends from the altar, the Angel ascends with it, revealing his true nature ([[Judges 13:15-21]]). This theophany fills Manoah with fear, believing they would die for seeing God, but his wife's faith reassures him ([[Judges 13:22-23]]).
Later, Manoah and his wife accompany Samson to Timnah to arrange his marriage to a Philistine woman, a union that, though seemingly against their wishes, is revealed to be from the Lord ([[Judges 14:2-4]]). Manoah's role is foundational as the patriarch through whom Samson, the deliverer, is brought into the world, underscoring God's sovereign choice and preparation for His purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related Hebrew word is H4494 (מָנוֹחַ), the common noun from which the proper noun H4495 is derived, signifying "rest" or "resting place." This noun itself stems from the verbal root H5117 (נוּחַ, nuach), which means "to rest," "to settle down," or "to be quiet."
Other related concepts of "rest" in the Hebrew Bible include:
* H7673 (שָׁבַת, shabat): To cease, to rest, particularly in the context of the Sabbath.
* H7901 (שָׁקַט, shaqat): To be quiet, to be at peace, to be undisturbed.
* H7280 (רֶגַע, rega): A moment of rest or quiet, often fleeting.
The broader biblical concept of "rest" is multifaceted, encompassing God's rest after creation ([[Genesis 2:2]]), the promised land as a place of rest for Israel ([[Deuteronomy 12:10]]), and spiritual rest found in God. Manoah's name, therefore, stands in a rich theological tradition of divine provision of rest, even amidst turmoil.
### Theological Significance
Manoah's story is replete with theological significance. Firstly, it is a powerful demonstration of **divine initiative and sovereignty**. God chooses Manoah and his barren wife to bring forth Samson, highlighting that God's plans are not contingent on human ability but on His own will. The miraculous birth motif emphasizes the supernatural origin of Samson's strength and purpose.
Secondly, the narrative presents a significant **theophany**. The Angel of the Lord's appearance, his mysterious nature, and his ascent in the flame of the sacrifice underscore the reality of divine presence and communication in human history. Manoah's initial fear and subsequent reassurance by his wife's faith ([[Judges 13:22-23]]) reveal a profound encounter with the holy.
Thirdly, the **paradox of Manoah's name** is striking. "Manoah," meaning "rest," lives during a period of severe Philistine oppression, a time of anything but rest for Israel. His son, Samson, while destined to begin Israel's deliverance, brings not immediate peace but rather a series of violent, often chaotic, acts. This paradox suggests that true divine "rest" is not merely the absence of conflict but a deeper, God-given security and eventual deliverance that may come through unexpected and even turbulent means. It points to a rest that is ultimately eschatological, achieved through God's active intervention.
Finally, Manoah serves as a **figure of faith and obedience**. Despite his initial confusion and fear, he and his wife faithfully adhere to the strict Nazirite instructions for Samson, demonstrating a trust in God's word and purpose for their son. This obedience prepares the way for God's chosen deliverer.
### Summary
H4495 (מָנוֹחַ, Mânôwach) is the proper name of Samson's father, whose name etymologically means "rest" or "resting place," derived from H4494` (מָנוֹחַ). Scripturally, Manoah is a pivotal figure in Judges 13-14, chosen by God along with his barren wife to conceive and raise Samson, Israel's divinely appointed deliverer from Philistine oppression. His story features a significant theophany with the Angel of the Lord, underscoring God's direct involvement in preparing His chosen instruments. The paradox of Manoah's name, "rest," in a time of profound unrest, highlights that divine rest is often achieved through God's sovereign, sometimes turbulent, intervention rather than passive tranquility. Manoah's faith and obedience in following divine instructions set the stage for Samson's unique ministry, illustrating God's meticulous preparation for His redemptive plans.
TRV