Judges 13:23
But his wife said unto him, If the LORD were pleased to kill us, he would not have received a burnt offering and a meat offering at our hands, neither would he have shewed us all these things, nor would as at this time have told us such things as these.
Judges 13:23 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we see the story of Manoah and his wife who are visited by an angel of the LORD. Manoah’s wife displays a deep understanding of God's character and faithfulness. She reminds her husband that if God intended harm, He would not have accepted their offerings or shown them the miraculous signs they have witnessed. She reassures Manoah that God has a plan for them and that they should trust in His goodness. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and his willingness to communicate with his people. It also highlights the importance of trusting in God's plan even when faced with uncertainty or difficult situations. Manoah's wife sets an example of unwavering faith and reminds us to look for signs of God's presence in our lives, even in the midst of challenges.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the wife of Manoah expresses her theological interpretation of the events that have unfolded. She reassures her husband that if the LORD had intended to kill them, he would not have accepted their burnt offering and meat offering. She believes that the fact that God has shown them various signs and revelations means that He is pleased with them and has plans to bless them, rather than harm them. Her words convey a deep sense of faith and trust in the character of God, even in the face of uncertainty and danger. This passage highlights the importance of interpreting God's actions through the lens of faith and trust, rather than fear and doubt. It serves as a reminder to readers to lean on God's promises and past faithfulness, especially in times of adversity.
Judges 13:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
But his wife said unto him, If Jehovah were pleased to kill us, he would not have received a burnt-offering and a meal-offering at our hand, neither would he have showed us all these things, nor would at this time have told such things as these.
World English Bible
But his wife said to him, “If Yahweh were pleased to kill us, he wouldn’t have received a burnt offering and a meal offering at our hand, neither would he have shown us all these things, nor would at this time have told such things as these.”
Douay-Rheims
And his wife answered him: If the Lord had a mind to kill us, he would not have received a holocaust and libations at our hands; neither would he have shewed us all these things, nor have told us the things that are to come.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But his wife saide vnto him, If the Lord woulde kill vs, he woulde not haue receiued a burnt offring, and a meate offring of our hands, neither would he haue shewed vs all these things, nor would now haue tolde vs any such.