“And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is secret?”
Context: The book of Judges tells the story of the period in Israel’s history after Joshua’s death, when the Israelites were led by various judges. This particular verse is part of the account of the birth of Samson, who would later become one of the most well-known judges of Israel.
Encounter with the angel: In Judges 13, we read about the encounter between Manoah and his wife with an angel of the Lord. The angel appeared to announce the birth of a special child who would deliver Israel from the Philistines. Manoah and his wife were childless, and this news was both surprising and joyful to them.
Manoah’s inquiry: In verse 17, Manoah asks the angel to stay so they can prepare a young goat as an offering. However, the angel replies with the question found in verse 18: “Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it is secret?”
The secret of God’s name: The angel’s response indicates that his name is a secret. This secrecy may suggest the divine mystery and transcendence of God’s nature. It reflects the belief that God’s name is not to be taken lightly or used casually. It emphasizes the awe and reverence due to the name of God.
The significance of names: In biblical times, names carried great significance and often revealed something about a person’s character or mission. By not revealing his name, the angel maintains a sense of mystery and reinforces the idea that this announcement of Samson’s birth is from God Himself.
God’s sovereignty and authority: The angel’s response reminds Manoah and us that God’s ways are beyond human comprehension. It highlights God’s authority to reveal or withhold information according to His divine purposes. It also teaches us to trust in God’s plan, even when we may not fully understand it.
Foreshadowing Jesus Christ: This passage also holds a parallel to the New Testament, where Jesus Himself is often referred to as the “name above all names” (Philippians 2:9). Just as the angel’s name was secret, Jesus came as the revelation of God in human form, unveiling the mystery and love of God to humanity.
Application:
- Awe and reverence for God: The secrecy of the angel’s name reminds us of the greatness and mystery of God. It encourages us to approach God with humility and reverence, acknowledging His authority and sovereignty in our lives.
- Trusting in God’s plan: Manoah’s encounter with the angel teaches us that God’s ways are higher than our ways. We may not always understand His plan, but we can trust in His goodness and faithfulness. We should seek to align our lives with His purposes and trust Him to work out His will in His perfect timing.
- Reflecting on Jesus Christ: As we consider the secret name of the angel, we are reminded of the unparalleled revelation of God in Jesus Christ. We can meditate on the love, grace, and sacrifice displayed through Jesus, who came to make the mystery of God known to us.
Judges 13:18 reveals the secrecy of the angel’s name in the context of announcing the birth of Samson. This verse reminds us of God’s mystery, sovereignty, and the importance of approaching Him with awe and reverence. It also foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God in Jesus Christ. As we seek to understand this passage, we are
