King James Version

What Does Judges 13:16 Mean?

And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Though thou detain me, I will not eat of thy bread: and if thou wilt offer a burnt offering, thou must offer it unto the LORD. For Manoah knew not that he was an angel of the LORD.

Context

14

She may not eat of any thing that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing: all that I commanded her let her observe.

15

And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, I pray thee, let us detain thee, until we shall have made ready a kid for thee. for thee: Heb. before thee

16

And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Though thou detain me, I will not eat of thy bread: and if thou wilt offer a burnt offering, thou must offer it unto the LORD. For Manoah knew not that he was an angel of the LORD.

17

And Manoah said unto the angel of the LORD, What is thy name, that when thy sayings come to pass we may do thee honour?

18

And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is secret ? secret: or, wonderful

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(16) **Thou must offer it unto the Lord.**—Rather, *a burnt offering unto the Lord thou mayest offer it. *(Comp. Judges 6:20.) Angels invariably discourage and reprove that “worship of angels” (Colossians 2:18), which was the tendency of early Gnostic sects (*Daniel 10*; Revelation 19:10; Revelation 22:8). The angel might have partaken of earthly food, as we see from Genesis 18:8; Genesis 19:3. Hence Milton says:— “Food alike these pure Intelligential substances require, As doth your rational.”—*Par. Lost, *5:418.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Judges. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Judges 13:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

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