Bible Verse Meaning: Judges 13:18

The verse Judges 13:18 states: "And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is secret?" This verse occurs in the narrative where Manoah, the father of Samson, encounters an angelic messenger. This commentary seeks to explore the deeper meanings and implications of this verse, drawing insights from notable public domain Bible commentaries.

Overview of Judges 13:18

Judges chapter 13 introduces us to the birth of Samson, a significant figure in Biblical history known for his supernatural strength. This particular verse serves as a crucial moment where the angel, representing God's messenger, communicates a profound truth through a question posed to Manoah.

Key Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry explains that the angel's response highlights the ineffable nature of God's name. By stating that it is "secret," the angel suggests that God's essence and intentions are beyond human understanding. This underscores the humility required in our relationship with God and reminds us to approach Him with reverence and awe.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the significance of the name of the angel. He indicates that asking for the angel's name reveals a desire for revelation and understanding, yet the response serves as a reminder that some aspects of God are purposely concealed from human perception. He emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's plans.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke discusses the etymology of the term "secret," suggesting it refers to something that is wonderful or miraculous. He draws attention to the angel’s designation that the name will not be fully comprehensible to mortal beings, illustrating God's grandeur and the mystery surrounding divine deployment. Clarke notes that this contributes to the theme of the extraordinary role of Samson as a judge and liberator.

Applications for Bible Study

This verse invites readers to reflect on the nature of faith, the significance of divine encounters, and the limits of human understanding concerning God. Here are some key applications for Bible study:

• Understanding the Nature of God: Reflect on how God's grandeur may often exceed our understanding.
• Approaching God with Reverence: Cultivate a sense of humility and awe in your approach to God's presence.
• Trust in Divine Plans: Recognize that not everything about God's plans will be revealed, inviting a deeper trust in His wisdom.

Related Bible Verses

Judges 13:18 connects to multiple other scriptures that share similar themes, including:

• Genesis 32:29: Jacob encounters God and asks for His name, which follows a similar theme of divine revelation.
• Exodus 3:14: God reveals His name to Moses, illustrating the significance of God's identity in His covenant relationship with His people.
• Isaiah 55:8-9: This passage reinforces the concept that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours, echoing the mystery reflected in Judges 13:18.

Conclusion

Judges 13:18 serves as a profound lesson in the understanding of God’s nature, inviting believers to engage deeply with the idea of divine mystery. Through careful Bible verse interpretations, one gains valuable biblical exegesis essential for enriched Bible study insights. This verse encourages believers to explore the meanings of scripture while facilitating discussions in Bible study groups or while engaging in online Bible study sessions.