Judges 13:12

Judges 13:12 records Manoah's eager response to the Angel of the Lord's prophecy concerning his son, Samson. Having just heard the miraculous news of a child who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines, Manoah's immediate concern shifts to the practicalities of raising this divinely appointed son. His questions reveal a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to align with God's specific instructions for the child's upbringing.

Context

This verse follows the Angel of the Lord's second appearance to Manoah and his barren wife, confirming the message previously given to the wife in Judges 13:3. The Angel had already revealed that the child would be a Nazirite from birth (Judges 13:5), a special vow to God involving abstinence from wine, strong drink, grapes, and not cutting hair. Manoah, grasping the magnitude of this divine intervention and the unique calling on his future son, seeks clarity on how to fulfill the specific requirements for raising such a child. This period in Israel's history was marked by oppression under the Philistines, setting the stage for Samson's future role as a deliverer.

Key Themes

• Divine Purpose and Parental Responsibility: Manoah's questions, "How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him?", underscore his recognition that this child was not ordinary but designated for a special purpose. This immediately prompts him to seek divine guidance on parental duties, highlighting the weight of raising a child with a prophetic destiny.
• Seeking Specific Instruction: Beyond general parenting, Manoah desires precise instructions on how to raise Samson in accordance with the Nazirite vow and God's plan. This reflects a commendable desire to honor God's will in every detail, especially concerning a child dedicated to Him.
• Anticipation and Faith: Manoah's opening phrase, "Now let thy words come to pass," signifies his full acceptance and eager anticipation of the prophecy's fulfillment. Despite the extraordinary nature of the announcement, he believes and prepares for the promised miracle.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "order the child" comes from a root (`minhag` or `mishpat`) that suggests custom, rule, manner, or judgment. It implies Manoah is asking about the proper way, the prescribed manner, or the specific regulations concerning the child's upbringing. "How shall we do unto him?" (Hebrew: `asah`) further emphasizes the practical actions and methods required for their role as parents to this Nazirite child. These terms collectively express a desire for clear, actionable directives from the divine messenger.

Practical Application

Manoah's response offers valuable lessons for believers today:

• Seeking God's Guidance in Parenting: Like Manoah, parents are called to seek God's wisdom in raising their children, recognizing that children are a gift from God (Psalm 127:3). This involves prayer, studying God's Word, and seeking wise counsel.
• Responsibility in Nurturing God-Given Potential: When God reveals a purpose or gifting in someone's life, there is a responsibility to nurture that potential according to His will. Manoah's immediate concern for Samson's upbringing demonstrates this commitment.
• Trusting God's Plan: Even when the full scope of God's plan is not yet clear, Manoah's faith allows him to accept the prophecy and prepare diligently. This encourages us to trust in God's sovereign hand and prepare for His purposes in our lives and the lives of those entrusted to us, always seeking wisdom as exhorted in James 1:5.