The reading from the Prophets for this Shabbat is selected from Shoftim, Judges. The birth of Samson is felt to be an appropriate reading as his mother consecrates Samson as a nazir.

A messenger from G-d visits the wife of Manoah. The messenger tells the woman to observe the laws of the nazir, as she will be blessed with a son who will observe the laws of nazir from the moment of his conception. Manoah asks for a vision of the messenger. However, the messenger only visits Manoah's wife again. Note that the Hebrew describes the messenger as "ish ha-elohim", a "man of G-d". Therefore, it is felt the term "messenger" is more appropriate than "angel" because of the visual image most of us conjure in the English word "angel".

The messenger ultimately appears to Manoah and informs him of the special role of his future son. Manoah offers the messenger food, which the latter refuses. Manoah wishes to know the "name" of the messenger. However, it cannot be revealed. To know a person's name is to know that individual's essence. Manoah cannot know the "essence" of the messenger from G-d who is a manifestation of G-d Himself!

The divine messenger ascends to heaven in the flame of the altar. Manoah and his wife are overwhelmed by their experience. However, Manoah's wife assures him that they will survive this encounter.

The special child is named Shimshon, Samson.