This verse from Exodus 16:14 describes the first appearance of manna, the miraculous food God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness after they fled Egypt. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the dew that lay had gone..." This sets the scene. The morning dew has evaporated, revealing something new on the ground.
"...behold, on the surface of the wilderness was a small round thing..." The word "behold" suggests something unexpected and noteworthy. The Israelites discovered something new: a small, round substance covering the desert floor.
"...small as the frost on the ground." This gives a specific description of the size and appearance of the substance. It was tiny, like frost, and round, suggesting it was granular or pellet-like.
In essence, the verse describes the sudden and unexpected appearance of a new, unknown substance in the wilderness after the dew had evaporated. This substance was small, round, and resembled frost.
Significance:
Miraculous Provision: This verse is the introduction to the story of manna, which is interpreted as a divine provision for the Israelites' survival in the harsh wilderness. It highlights God's care and provision for his people.
A Test of Faith: The manna wasn't just a free meal; it also became a test of the Israelites' faith and obedience. They were instructed to gather only enough for each day (except for the Sabbath), and to trust God to provide for them daily.
Dependence on God: The appearance of manna every morning emphasized the Israelites' complete dependence on God for their sustenance. They could not rely on their own skills or resources.
The verse sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which details the rules and regulations surrounding the gathering and consumption of manna.
This verse from Exodus 16:14 describes the first appearance of manna, the miraculous food God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness after they fled Egypt. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the dew that lay had gone..." This sets the scene. The morning dew has evaporated, revealing something new on the ground.
"...behold, on the surface of the wilderness was a small round thing..." The word "behold" suggests something unexpected and noteworthy. The Israelites discovered something new: a small, round substance covering the desert floor.
"...small as the frost on the ground." This gives a specific description of the size and appearance of the substance. It was tiny, like frost, and round, suggesting it was granular or pellet-like.
In essence, the verse describes the sudden and unexpected appearance of a new, unknown substance in the wilderness after the dew had evaporated. This substance was small, round, and resembled frost.
Significance:
Miraculous Provision: This verse is the introduction to the story of manna, which is interpreted as a divine provision for the Israelites' survival in the harsh wilderness. It highlights God's care and provision for his people.
A Test of Faith: The manna wasn't just a free meal; it also became a test of the Israelites' faith and obedience. They were instructed to gather only enough for each day (except for the Sabbath), and to trust God to provide for them daily.
Dependence on God: The appearance of manna every morning emphasized the Israelites' complete dependence on God for their sustenance. They could not rely on their own skills or resources.
The verse sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which details the rules and regulations surrounding the gathering and consumption of manna.