Judges 13:15 (KJV)

What does Judges 13:15 mean?

Judges 13:15 shows Manoah asking the angel of the LORD to stay while he prepares a young goat as a meal or offering. Manoah wants to honor this visitor, not yet realizing the angel’s true identity.

Manoah, Samson’s father, is speaking to the angel of the LORD during a mysterious visit. Manoah’s request is a gesture of hospitality and respect, common in ancient times when hosting a guest. The verse sets up the following events, where Manoah and his wife come to realize they are encountering a divine messenger.

The Hebrew behind Judges 13:15

• The word for "detain" is עָצַר (ʿatsar), which often means to hold back or restrain. Here, it shows Manoah’s eagerness to keep the angel present, highlighting his desire for further interaction or blessing.
• The word for "kid" is גְּדִי (gəḏî), meaning a young goat. In ancient Israel, offering a young goat was a sign of honor or could be part of a sacrifice, showing Manoah’s respect and possibly his uncertainty about how to respond to the angel.

Why Judges 13:15 matters

• The verse helps clarify Manoah’s respectful attitude and his uncertainty about the angel’s identity, showing that he treats the visitor as an honored guest.
• It connects to the larger story by building suspense and anticipation for the angel’s true nature to be revealed.
• The hospitality shown here is typical of ancient Near Eastern culture, helping modern readers understand the customs and expectations of the time.