Numbers 11:5

We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic.

Study Bible

We remember
The phrase "We remember" indicates a longing for the past, a common human tendency to idealize former times, especially when faced with current difficulties. In Hebrew, the word used here is "zakar," which means to recall or bring to mind. This act of remembering is not just a mental exercise but often involves a deep emotional connection. In the context of the Israelites, it reflects their struggle with faith and contentment, as they yearn for the familiarity of Egypt despite their newfound freedom. This serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and trust in God's provision, even when the path forward seems uncertain.

the fish
The mention of "the fish" highlights the specific cravings of the Israelites. In Egypt, fish was a staple food, readily available from the Nile River. The Hebrew word "dag" refers to fish in general, emphasizing the abundance and variety they once enjoyed. This longing for fish symbolizes a desire for the comforts and certainties of their past life, even if it was a life of bondage. It challenges believers to consider what they might be holding onto from their past that hinders their spiritual growth and reliance on God.

we ate in Egypt
The phrase "we ate in Egypt" underscores the physical sustenance the Israelites received during their time in bondage. The Hebrew word "akal" means to eat or consume, and it reflects the tangible, daily provision they experienced. However, this statement also reveals a selective memory, as it overlooks the harsh realities of slavery. It serves as a cautionary tale about the danger of romanticizing the past and the importance of focusing on the spiritual nourishment God provides in the present.

at no cost
The expression "at no cost" is particularly ironic, as it suggests that the Israelites received their food freely, ignoring the heavy price of their enslavement. The Hebrew phrase "chinnam" means without cost or freely, but it belies the true cost of their oppression and suffering. This highlights the human tendency to overlook the true cost of sin and bondage, reminding believers of the freedom and true cost of redemption found in Christ.

also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic
This list of foods—"cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic"—represents the variety and flavor of the diet the Israelites enjoyed in Egypt. Each of these foods has its own significance in the ancient Near Eastern diet, providing not only sustenance but also pleasure. The Hebrew words for these foods reflect their cultural importance and the sensory memories they evoke. This longing for the flavors of Egypt symbolizes a deeper spiritual hunger and the challenge of finding satisfaction in God's provision. It encourages believers to seek fulfillment in the spiritual richness of a life devoted to God, rather than the fleeting pleasures of the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now journeying through the wilderness toward the Promised Land.

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved for 400 years. It represents both a place of bondage and a place of provision in the Israelites' memory.

3. The Wilderness
The desert area where the Israelites wandered for 40 years. It is a place of testing and reliance on God.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

5. The Manna
The miraculous food provided by God to sustain the Israelites in the wilderness, representing God's provision and care.

Teaching Points

Contentment in God's Provision
The Israelites' longing for the food of Egypt reflects a lack of contentment with God's provision. We are called to trust and be content with what God provides, recognizing His wisdom and care.

The Danger of Selective Memory
The Israelites remembered the food of Egypt but forgot the bondage. We must be cautious of romanticizing past situations and forgetting the full context, especially when God is leading us to something better.

Gratitude vs. Grumbling
The Israelites' complaints highlight the human tendency to grumble. Cultivating a heart of gratitude can transform our perspective and align us with God's will.

Spiritual Nourishment
Just as the Israelites needed physical sustenance, we need spiritual nourishment. Jesus, the "bread of life," offers us what we truly need for our spiritual journey.

Trust in God's Timing
The wilderness was a time of preparation and testing. Trusting in God's timing and process is crucial for spiritual growth and maturity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Israelites' longing for the food of Egypt reflect their spiritual state, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives when we face discontentment?

2. In what ways do we sometimes romanticize our past, forgetting the challenges and bondage that came with it? How can we maintain a balanced perspective?

3. How can we cultivate a heart of gratitude in our daily lives, especially when we are tempted to grumble about our circumstances?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek spiritual nourishment from Jesus, the "bread of life," in our daily walk with God?

5. How can we learn to trust in God's timing and provision during our own "wilderness" experiences, and what scriptures can we turn to for encouragement?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 16
This chapter describes the initial provision of manna and the Israelites' complaints about their diet, highlighting their struggle with contentment and trust in God's provision.

Psalm 78
This psalm recounts the history of Israel, including their complaints and God's provision, serving as a reminder of God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness.

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