King James Version

What Does Judges 13:20 Mean?

For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground.

Context

18

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

19

So Manoah took a kid with a meat offering, and offered it upon a rock unto the LORD: and the angel did wondrously; and Manoah and his wife looked on.

20

For it came to pass, when the flame went up toward heaven from off the altar, that the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. And Manoah and his wife looked on it, and fell on their faces to the ground.

21

But the angel of the LORD did no more appear to Manoah and to his wife. Then Manoah knew that he was an angel of the LORD.

22

And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because we have seen God.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(20) **From off the altar.**—The rock (*tsor*) of Judges 13:19 is now hallowed into an altar (*mizbeach*)*.* **Fell on their faces.**—Comp. Leviticus 9:24; Numbers 14:5; Ezekiel 1:28.

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 13:20 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

Verses related to Judges 13:20

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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