Exodus 16:22

On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much food--two omers per person--and all the leaders of the congregation came and reported this to Moses.

Study Bible

On the sixth day
This phrase marks a significant point in the weekly cycle of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The "sixth day" is a reference to the day before the Sabbath, a day of preparation. In the Hebrew context, the number six often symbolizes human effort and labor, as it is the day before the divine rest of the Sabbath. This preparation day underscores the importance of the Sabbath, a day set apart for rest and worship, reflecting God's creation pattern in Genesis.

they gathered twice as much food
The Israelites collected double the amount of manna on this day, which was a direct command from God. This act of gathering twice as much signifies God's provision and the need for human obedience to divine instructions. The Hebrew word for "gathered" (אָסַף, 'asaph) implies a careful and intentional collection, highlighting the Israelites' trust in God's provision for the Sabbath.

two omers per person
An omer is a unit of measure used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to about 2.3 liters or 2 quarts. The specific mention of "two omers per person" indicates God's precise provision for each individual's needs. This detail emphasizes God's meticulous care and the sufficiency of His provision, ensuring that no one lacked what was necessary for sustenance.

and all the leaders of the congregation
The "leaders" or "elders" (זְקֵנִים, zekenim) were responsible for guiding and overseeing the community. Their involvement in this narrative highlights the importance of leadership in maintaining order and ensuring adherence to God's commands. It also reflects the communal aspect of Israelite society, where leaders played a crucial role in spiritual and practical matters.

came and reported this to Moses
The act of reporting to Moses signifies the chain of communication and authority within the Israelite camp. Moses, as God's appointed leader, served as the intermediary between God and the people. This structure underscores the importance of accountability and the role of leadership in interpreting and implementing God's instructions. The leaders' report to Moses also reflects their recognition of his God-given authority and their reliance on his guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites are currently traveling. It is a place of testing and reliance on God's provision.

4. The Leaders of the Congregation
Representatives of the Israelite community who report to Moses about the gathering of manna.

5. Manna
The miraculous bread from heaven provided by God to sustain the Israelites in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Faithfulness
God provides for our needs, often in unexpected ways. Just as He provided manna for the Israelites, He meets our daily needs.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites were instructed to gather twice as much on the sixth day. Obedience to God's commands is crucial for experiencing His blessings.

The Principle of Rest
The gathering of double portions on the sixth day highlights the importance of rest and preparation. Observing a day of rest is a divine principle that benefits our spiritual and physical well-being.

Community and Leadership
The leaders reporting to Moses signifies the importance of community and accountability in following God's instructions.

Trust in God's Timing
The Israelites had to trust God's timing and provision, gathering only what was needed each day, except on the sixth day. This teaches us to trust in God's perfect timing and provision in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the provision of manna in Exodus 16:22 demonstrate God's faithfulness to the Israelites, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives today?

2. In what ways does the instruction to gather twice as much on the sixth day relate to the concept of Sabbath rest, and how can we incorporate rest into our weekly routine?

3. How does the role of the leaders in reporting to Moses reflect the importance of community and accountability in our spiritual journey?

4. What parallels can you draw between the daily gathering of manna and Jesus' teaching on daily bread in the Lord's Prayer?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's timing and provision, especially when His instructions seem contrary to our understanding or expectations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16:5
This verse provides context for the instruction to gather twice as much on the sixth day, as it was preparation for the Sabbath rest.

Genesis 2:2-3
The concept of the Sabbath rest is rooted in the creation account, where God rested on the seventh day.

Matthew 6:11
Jesus teaches His disciples to pray for daily bread, echoing the daily provision of manna.

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