שופטים, פרק ו׳, פסוק כ׳

Precise instructions suddenly change the purpose of the food Gideon brought, transforming it from a simple meal into a heavenly offering. He is told to place the meat and unleavened bread on the specific rock located directly in front of them [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. He is then commanded to pour the broth directly over the rock [מצודת דוד].

During this moment of instruction, a noticeable shift occurs in how the messenger is addressed. Throughout the rest of the narrative, he is known as the angel of the Lord, but here he is specifically called the angel of God [מלבי״ם, חומת אנך]. There are two ways to understand this change, both rooted in the nature of the situation. One approach suggests that the unusual commands to place food on a rock and pour out the broth might have caused Gideon to hesitate. Because the term for God used here represents strict justice, it serves to instill awe in Gideon, ensuring he follows the instructions exactly [חומת אנך].

Another perspective focuses on the strict rules of sacrifice. An angel cannot accept an offering, as sacrifices belong to God alone. At this stage of giving instructions, the angel functions merely as a messenger and intermediary. Later, when the offering is actually accepted, the original title returns to emphasize that God Himself is present and receiving the sacrifice, rather than the angel [מלבי״ם].