Book of Exodus - Chapter 16 - Verse 36
Meaning
In this verse, the measurement of an omer is defined as the tenth part of an ephah. An ephah was a unit of dry measure in the ancient Hebrew system, equivalent to approximately 22 liters or 5.8 gallons. The omer, being a tenth of an ephah, would then be equal to approximately 2.2 liters or 0.58 gallons. The omer was commonly used to measure grains such as barley or wheat in biblical times. This specific measurement is mentioned in the context of the Israelites collecting manna in the desert, where they were instructed to gather one omer of manna per person each day. Understanding the measurement of the omer helps to give context to the amount of food that was provided to the Israelites during their time in the wilderness.
Theological Overview
Some theological interpretations of the verse "Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah" focus on the significance of measurements in the context of ancient Israelite culture. The omer was a standard unit of measure used to quantify various items, including manna that fell from heaven during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The ephah was a larger unit of measure, typically ten times the size of an omer. This verse highlights the precision and orderliness of God's provision for His people, as well as the importance of accurate measurements in the distribution of resources. Studying the original Hebrew words for "omer" and "ephah" can provide further insight into the cultural, historical, and religious significance of these measurements in the biblical context. By delving into word studies, scholars can deepen their understanding of the specific terms used in the Bible and how they contribute to the overall message and theology of the text.