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Judges 13 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
There are many instances in the Old Testament where scholars attribute a being from heaven as being Jesus Christ. This is one of those times. The ‘angel of the Lord’ comes to give instructions regarding Samson, but has some strange responses that cause us to pause and question.
Manoah said to the angel of the LORD, “What is your name, so that when your words come to pass, we may honor you?” 18 But the angel of the LORD said to him, “Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?”
Judges 13:17-18 NASB
Compare this to the nameless man who wrestles Jacob until daybreak and then gives him a blessing – also a possible instance of Christ.
Then Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak.
Genesis 32:24 NASB
Then Jacob asked him and said, “Please tell me your name.” But he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” And he blessed him there.
Gen 32:29
“Why is it you ask my name?” The same response is found by a heavenly being who both has the authority to give blessings as well as redirect praise to His Father. He also states His name is wonderful.
For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 NASB
Was it really Him? We can’t know for sure. But it is interesting to consider. No matter if it was or was not, the message from God was crystal clear. Samson’s parents were to obey. This is something we should remember as we read the next few chapters.