Book of Judges - Chapter 13 - Verse 17

In this verse from the book of Judges, Manoah, the father of Samson, is speaking to an angel of the LORD who has appeared to him. Manoah's question, "What is thy name, that when thy sayings come to pass we may do thee honour?" shows his desire to give honor and recognition to the angel for the messages he brings. This question reflects the importance of acknowledging and respecting the divine authority that the angel represents. By asking for the angel's name, Manoah is seeking to show proper reverence and gratitude for the divine messages and blessings he has received.

This verse also highlights the significance of names in biblical context. In the Bible, names often carry symbolic and spiritual meanings, and knowing someone's name can be a way of understanding their character and purpose. By asking for the angel's name, Manoah is seeking to deepen his connection and understanding of the divine being before him. This act of seeking the angel's name demonstrates a desire for relationship and communion with the divine, showing a humble willingness to honor and obey the will of God as revealed through the angel's words.

Manoah's question to the angel of the LORD in Judges 13:17 reflects the profound theological aspect of seeking to know the identity of the divine being encountering him. By asking for the angel's name, Manoah shows his desire to understand the nature of the being he is interacting with. In the biblical context, knowing someone's name was believed to give insight into their essence and character. Manoah's request for the angel's name indicates his reverence and desire to give proper honor to this divine being who brought him a message from God.

The word "honour" in this verse carries significant theological weight. By seeking to honor the angel of the LORD, Manoah demonstrates his understanding of the importance of showing respect and reverence to God's messengers. The act of honoring carries with it the idea of acknowledging the authority and divine nature of the one being honored. In this case, Manoah's desire to honor the angel reflects his awareness of the presence of the divine in his midst and his willingness to show proper respect in response to the message he has received.

Overall, Manoah's question and his intention to honor the angel of the LORD reveal his deep theological understanding and reverence for the divine presence in his life. Through his actions and words, Manoah exemplifies the importance of seeking to know and honor God in all encounters, even when faced with divine messengers in unexpected forms.