“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.”
Context: The book of Judges recounts the history of Israel during the time of the judges, a period of about 300 years when God raised up various leaders to deliver His people from oppression. Judges 13 introduces the story of Samson, who would become one of the most well-known judges of Israel.
The angel’s appearance: In Judges 13, an angel of the Lord appeared to the wife of Manoah, who was barren, and informed her that she would conceive and bear a son. The child was to be a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth, and would deliver Israel from the Philistines.
Dietary restrictions for Samson: In verse 14, the angel provides specific instructions regarding the dietary restrictions for Samson. He instructs that the child’s mother should not consume anything that comes from the vine, which includes wine or strong drink. Additionally, she was not to eat any unclean food.
The significance of the dietary restrictions: The dietary restrictions placed upon Samson’s mother were part of the Nazirite vow, which Samson would be under from birth. A Nazirite was consecrated to God for a specific period, often voluntarily, and during that time, they abstained from certain things, including wine or grape products. This abstention symbolized their dedication and separation unto God.
Spiritual symbolism: The abstinence from wine and grape products in the Nazirite vow carried spiritual symbolism. Wine and strong drink were associated with indulgence, excess, and impaired judgment. By abstaining from them, Nazirites demonstrated their commitment to self-control, purity, and living a consecrated life for God.
Observing God’s command: The angel emphasizes that Samson’s mother should observe all that he had commanded regarding the dietary restrictions. This highlights the importance of obedience to God’s instructions. The angel’s words imply that strict adherence to these requirements would contribute to Samson’s special purpose and his ability to fulfill his role as a deliverer of Israel.
Lessons for believers today: While the Nazirite vow was specific to certain individuals in the Old Testament, there are principles we can glean from this passage. It reminds us of the significance of consecration and the need for self-control in our lives as believers. It also emphasizes the importance of obeying God’s instructions and living in a way that aligns with His purposes for our lives.
In summary, Judges 13:14 provides instructions regarding the dietary restrictions for Samson’s mother as part of the Nazirite vow. These restrictions symbolize dedication to God, self-control, and living a consecrated life. The passage highlights the significance of obedience and carries lessons for believers today about consecration and following God’s instructions.
