Definition: And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it [is] secret?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this biblical passage. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious verse from Judges 13. Here’s what it essentially means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about someone asking for something – specifically, the name of God – and the angel of God responding with a question that suggests the request might be a little bit… strange or even a little unsettling. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Judges 13:18” : This tells us we’re talking about a specific event in ancient Israel – a time when the people were facing a serious challenge with a powerful, rebellious leader named Sheba . “And the angel of the LORD” : This refers to God's representative, often seen as a divine messenger. The "angel of the Lord" isn’t necessarily a human being; it’s more like a symbol of divine authority and guidance. “Said unto him…” : This is a way of saying “to him” or “to that person.” “Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing it [is] secret?” This is the core of the verse. It's asking: "Why are you asking for my name ? You’re asking about something that seems to be hidden or mysterious." What does this suggest? The angel is essentially saying: “I am God, and I have a certain way of communicating with you. Your request – asking for my name – feels like it might be a little unusual or perhaps even a bit… secretive.” Possible Interpretations & Context: There are a few ways to interpret this verse, and it's been debated over the years: Divine Protection: Some believe that God is protecting himself or his purpose. Asking for his name, in this context, might be seen as a way of acknowledging his power and importance without revealing everything . Testing Obedience: It could also be interpreted as a test of obedience to God’s commands. Asking for something secret might signal a deeper intention or a desire that goes beyond simply obeying rules. A Subtle Warning: The angel might be warning Sheba – and potentially the Israelites – that he has a plan or purpose that is not immediately obvious. Important Note: This verse is rich with symbolism and has been subject to various interpretations throughout history. It’s a powerful image of divine authority and a subtle hint at something larger and perhaps more complex than what's immediately apparent. --- To help me explain it even better for you, could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this verse? (e.g., its historical significance, its meaning in a specific context?)