In the narrative of Judges 13, Manoah, a Danite man, and his wife are childless, living during a time when the children of Israel suffered under Philistine oppression for forty years due to their repeated sins. The Angel of the LORD appears to Manoah's wife in a field, announcing that she will conceive and bear a son who must live as a Nazirite, with specific instructions for her conduct. She rushes to tell Manoah of this encounter, describing the visitor as a Man of God with an awesome countenance, though she did not learn His name or origin. Manoah prays to God, requesting that this Man of God return to instruct them on how to raise the child. God answers his prayer, and the Angel appears again to his wife, who quickly brings Manoah to meet Him. Manoah confirms if this is the same Being who spoke to his wife and, upon affirmation, eagerly asks about the boy's future life and work. The Angel reiterates the instructions given to his wife, emphasizing their importance. Manoah then offers to prepare a young goat for the Angel, who declines to eat but accepts a burnt offering instead. When Manoah inquires about His name, the Angel responds that it is wonderful and beyond understanding. As Manoah and his wife offer the goat and a grain offering on a rock, they witness the Angel ascend in the flames toward heaven, prompting them to fall on their faces in awe. Manoah expresses fear, saying they will surely die for having seen God, but his wife reassures him that if the LORD intended to kill them, He would not have accepted their offering or revealed such things to them.

Manoah, Samson's father, emerges as a figure of faith and humility despite harsh judgments from critics. Defined by his name, which means rest, some infer he was sterile or lacked vigor, yet Judges 13:2 notes his wife's barrenness, and the Angel of the Lord promises a future conception, signaling a divine miracle. Manoah's response to this revelation showcases his trust; upon hearing from his wife about the Angel's appearance, he prays for further guidance, asking God to send the Angel again to teach them how to raise their coming son. God hears Manoah's prayer, and though the Angel appears to his wife once more, Manoah rises swiftly to meet Him, displaying eagerness and respect. In their encounter, Manoah expresses hope and acceptance, saying, "Now let Your words come to pass!" He seeks no personal gain, only details about his son's life and purpose, recognizing the broader significance of this miracle amid Israel's oppression by the Philistines. When the Angel reiterates His earlier message, Manoah responds without bitterness, offering hospitality and worship through a burnt offering. After witnessing the Angel ascend in flames, Manoah, filled with awe, declares to his wife, "We have seen God!" Far from the critics' portrayal of a slow-witted or lazy man, Manoah proves to be a humble partner to his righteous and beautiful wife, accepting her as a full equal in their strong, communicative marriage. Both times the Angel appears to her, she immediately informs Manoah, looking to him as the family's head, and he believes her without hesitation. Chosen by God to raise a deliverer for Israel, Manoah receives a profound honor, demonstrating his worthiness through faith, prayer, and a desire for understanding. His family later grows, as evidenced by the large household that buries Samson, reflecting a legacy of faithfulness and divine blessing.