Exodus 16:36

(Now an omer is a tenth of an ephah.)

Study Bible

Now an omer
The term "omer" is a Hebrew word (עֹמֶר) that refers to a unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel. It is significant in the context of Exodus 16, where God provides manna to the Israelites in the wilderness. The omer represents God's provision and sufficiency, as each person was to gather an omer per day, symbolizing daily reliance on God's grace. The omer is a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's daily provision and not hoarding resources, reflecting a life of faith and dependence on God.

is a tenth
The phrase "a tenth" indicates a fractional measurement, emphasizing precision and order in God's instructions. In the broader biblical context, the concept of a "tenth" is often associated with tithing, where a tenth of one's produce or income is given back to God as an act of worship and acknowledgment of His sovereignty. Here, it underscores the meticulous care with which God provides for His people, ensuring that each person receives exactly what they need. It also reflects the principle of stewardship, where believers are called to manage God's provisions wisely and faithfully.

of an ephah
An "ephah" is another ancient Hebrew unit of measure, larger than an omer, used for dry goods. The ephah is approximately equivalent to 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. By defining the omer as a tenth of an ephah, the scripture provides clarity and context for the Israelites, who would have been familiar with these measurements. This precision in measurement highlights the orderliness of God's creation and His attention to detail. It also serves as a reminder of the abundance of God's provision, as the ephah represents a larger capacity, pointing to the fullness and generosity of God's blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who guided them through the wilderness and communicated God's instructions regarding the collection of manna.

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

3. Wilderness of Sin
The location where the Israelites received manna from heaven, a miraculous provision from God.

4. Manna
The bread from heaven provided by God to sustain the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

5. Omer and Ephah
Units of measurement used in ancient Israel. An omer is a smaller unit, specifically a tenth of an ephah, used to measure the daily portion of manna.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Provision
The omer as a measure of manna reminds us of God's precise and sufficient provision for our needs. Just as the Israelites received exactly what they needed, we can trust God to provide for us today.

Obedience and Trust
The Israelites were instructed to gather an omer per person, teaching us the importance of following God's instructions and trusting His wisdom in our daily lives.

Contentment with God's Gifts
The specific measurement of an omer encourages us to be content with what God provides, recognizing that His provision is always enough.

Symbolism of Manna and Christ
The manna foreshadows Christ as the true bread from heaven. Just as the Israelites depended on manna for physical sustenance, we are called to depend on Christ for spiritual nourishment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of an omer as a measure of God's provision challenge our understanding of sufficiency in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we practice obedience and trust in God's instructions, similar to the Israelites gathering manna?

3. How does the principle of honest measurements in Leviticus 19:36 apply to our daily interactions and business practices?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in a specific way. How did it impact your faith and trust in Him?

5. How can we draw parallels between the manna provided to the Israelites and Jesus as the "bread of life" in our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16:4-5
Describes God's provision of manna and the instructions for gathering it, emphasizing obedience and trust in God's provision.

Leviticus 19:36
Discusses the importance of honest measurements, reflecting God's desire for justice and integrity in daily life.

John 6:31-35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," drawing a parallel between the manna in the wilderness and His provision of spiritual sustenance.