Exodus 16:26

For six days you may gather, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, it will not be there."

Study Bible

Six days you are to gather, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, there will be none
Six days
The phrase "six days" refers to the workweek established by God during the creation narrative in Genesis. In Hebrew, the word for "six" is "shesh," which is used consistently throughout the Old Testament to denote completeness in terms of human labor. This period of six days is a divine pattern for human activity, reflecting God's own work in creation. It underscores the rhythm of work and rest that God has ordained for humanity, emphasizing the importance of diligence and responsibility in our daily tasks.

you are to gather
The act of gathering manna was a daily task for the Israelites, symbolizing God's provision and the need for human participation in receiving His blessings. The Hebrew word "laqach" means to take or gather, indicating an active role in collecting what God provides. This gathering was not just a physical act but a spiritual discipline, teaching reliance on God's daily provision and the importance of obedience to His commands.

but on the seventh day
The "seventh day" is significant as it marks the Sabbath, a day of rest instituted by God. The Hebrew word for "seventh" is "shevi'i," which is derived from the root "shava," meaning to be full or complete. This day is set apart as holy, a time for rest and reflection, mirroring God's rest on the seventh day of creation. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the need for humans to trust in His provision without striving.

the Sabbath
The term "Sabbath" comes from the Hebrew word "Shabbat," meaning to cease or rest. It is a covenant sign between God and His people, a day dedicated to rest and worship. The Sabbath is a gift from God, providing physical rest and spiritual renewal. It is a time to cease from labor and focus on God's presence, acknowledging Him as the source of all provision and sustenance.

there will be none
This phrase emphasizes the miraculous nature of the manna and God's control over its provision. The absence of manna on the Sabbath reinforces the lesson of trust and dependence on God. It teaches the Israelites that their survival does not depend solely on their efforts but on God's faithfulness. The Hebrew word "ayin" for "none" signifies the complete absence, highlighting the importance of adhering to God's instructions and the consequences of disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who conveyed God's instructions regarding the gathering of manna.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who were wandering in the wilderness and were provided with manna from heaven.

3. The Wilderness of Sin
The location where the Israelites were camped and where God provided manna.

4. Sabbath
The seventh day, a day of rest commanded by God, during which no manna would be provided.

5. Manna
The miraculous food provided by God to the Israelites in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Principle of Rest
God designed the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflecting His own rest after creation. This principle is vital for physical, mental, and spiritual renewal.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were instructed to gather manna for six days and rest on the seventh. This teaches the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when it requires trust and faith.

Provision and Dependence
God's provision of manna teaches us to rely on Him for our daily needs. The absence of manna on the Sabbath underscores the need to trust in God's provision and timing.

Sabbath as a Gift
The Sabbath is a gift from God, intended for our benefit. It is a time to cease from labor and focus on worship, family, and spiritual growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to gather manna for six days and rest on the seventh reflect God's design for work and rest in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of the Sabbath in a modern context, considering our busy lifestyles?

3. How does the provision of manna in the wilderness encourage us to trust in God's provision for our daily needs?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that we are observing a day of rest and worship in our weekly routine?

5. How does the concept of Sabbath rest in Exodus 16:26 connect to the spiritual rest offered through faith in Christ, as discussed in Hebrews 4:9-10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The concept of the Sabbath originates from the creation account, where God rested on the seventh day.

Deuteronomy 5:12-14
Reinforces the command to observe the Sabbath as a day of rest, linking it to the deliverance from Egypt.

Mark 2:27
Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, emphasizing its purpose for rest and renewal.

Hebrews 4:9-10
Discusses the Sabbath rest as a symbol of the spiritual rest found in Christ.