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Book of Exodus - Chapter 16 - Verse 15

16:15
And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, It is manna: for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat.

Meaning

In this verse, the children of Israel have just encountered a miraculous provision from the Lord in the form of manna. This mysterious substance appeared on the ground and was completely unfamiliar to them, prompting them to question what it was. Moses, the leader appointed by God, clarifies that this manna is the bread that the Lord has given them to eat. This event symbolizes God's faithfulness and provision for His people. The manna served as a physical manifestation of God's care and sustenance for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It was a daily reminder to the Israelites of God's presence and His promises to provide for their needs. This verse reinforces the idea that God is the ultimate provider and sustainer of His people, showing His love and grace in tangible ways.

Theological Overview

When the children of Israel first encountered the manna in the wilderness, they were perplexed and called it "manna" because they did not know what it was. The word "manna" is derived from the Hebrew phrase "man hu," which can be translated as "What is it?". This mysterious bread-like substance appeared on the ground each morning, providing sustenance to the Israelites during their journey through the desert. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the miraculous provision of God for His people. Just as the manna appeared miraculously to feed the Israelites, God continues to provide for His people in unexpected and supernatural ways. The manna symbolizes God's faithfulness and provision, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. Moses' declaration that the manna is the bread given by the Lord emphasizes the divine origin and purpose of this sustenance. It serves as a reminder of God's constant care and provision for His people, even in times of scarcity and uncertainty.

American Standard Version

And when the children of Israel saw it, they said one to another, What is it? for they knew not what it was. And Moses said unto them, It is the bread which Jehovah hath given you to eat.
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