Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Numbers - Chapter 11 - Verse 7

11:7
And the manna was as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium.

Meaning

The verse "And the manna was as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium" comes from the book of Exodus in the Old Testament. Manna was a mysterious food that God provided to the Israelites during their time in the desert. The description of manna as being similar to coriander seed gives us an idea of its shape and size, while the comparison to bdellium gives us a sense of its color. Bdellium is a resinous gum that is pale in color, so the manna was likely a light color as well. This verse helps us to visualize the manna as a small, seed-like substance that appeared like a precious gem on the ground each morning for the Israelites to collect and eat. The manna was a miraculous provision from God to sustain His people during their journey in the wilderness, showing His faithfulness and care for them.

Theological Overview

When looking at the theological interpretation of Exodus 16:31, which describes the manna as being like coriander seed and the color resembling bdellium, we can uncover several layers of meaning. The comparison of manna to coriander seed suggests the small and delicate nature of this miraculous food provided by God to sustain the Israelites in the wilderness. Just as coriander seed is small yet potent in flavor, so too was the manna a powerful source of sustenance for the hungry travelers. The mention of bdellium, a precious and fragrant resin, hints at the divine quality of the manna and underscores the idea that it was a gift from God. By drawing these connections, the verse highlights the miraculous and providential nature of the manna, emphasizing the Israelites' dependence on God for their daily bread. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of this verse in the larger narrative of God's care for His people.

American Standard Version

And the manna was like coriander seed, and the appearance thereof as the appearance of bdellium.
Previous VerseNext Verse