Book of Judges - Chapter 13 - Verse 22

When Manoah said to his wife, "We shall surely die, because we have seen God," he was expressing a common belief among the Israelites that encountering God face to face would result in death. This belief was rooted in the understanding that God's holiness and power were so great that mere mortals could not withstand His presence without consequence. In the Old Testament, there are numerous instances where individuals who came into contact with God or His angels feared for their lives, including Moses, Isaiah, and Ezekiel. Manoah's reaction reflects a deep sense of reverence and awe for the Almighty, as well as an awareness of his own unworthiness. While the Bible teaches that God is approachable and desires a personal relationship with His people, it also emphasizes the need to approach Him with humility and respect. Manoah's initial fear ultimately leads to a profound encounter with God, as he and his wife are blessed with a son, Samson, who would go on to be a mighty judge of Israel.

In the verse where Manoah expresses his fear of death after seeing God, there are theological implications to be explored. This verse highlights the awe and reverence humans feel in the presence of God, as Manoah and his wife are overwhelmed by the magnitude of seeing the divine. It also raises questions about the nature of God's presence and the limitations of human understanding when encountering the divine. The word "God" in this verse can be further studied to understand the Hebrew context and implications of seeing God in the Old Testament. Scholars have debated the significance of this encounter, with some viewing it as a sign of God's favor and others interpreting it as a moment of divine judgment. Overall, this verse invites readers to reflect on the complex emotions and theological implications of encountering God in a tangible way.