Book of Judges - Chapter 6 - Verse 22

When Gideon saw the angel of the Lord face to face, he was filled with awe and fear. In the Bible, encountering an angel was considered a profound experience because it symbolized a direct encounter with the divine. Gideon's response, "Alas, O Lord GOD!" reflects his realization of the significance of this encounter and his humble acknowledgment of God's presence. Seeing an angel face to face was a rare occurrence and often signified a special message or moment in the person's life. This moment with the angel of the Lord marked the beginning of Gideon's journey of faith and obedience to God's calling. It serves as a reminder to us of the importance of recognizing and responding to God's presence in our lives, even in unexpected or awe-inspiring ways.

When Gideon saw the angel of the Lord face to face, he was struck with a sense of awe and fear, addressing Him as "Lord GOD." This moment is significant in the theological interpretation of the passage as it highlights Gideon's realization of the divine presence before him. The term "angel of the LORD" is often used in the Bible to refer to a specific messenger sent by God to deliver important messages or guidance. By acknowledging the angel as such, Gideon demonstrates his understanding of the supernatural encounter he is experiencing. The phrase "face to face" carries with it a sense of intimacy and direct interaction with the divine, further emphasizing the gravity of the situation for Gideon. This encounter sets the stage for Gideon's future role as a leader and warrior for the Israelites, as he comes to grips with the miraculous nature of the call placed upon him.