Exodus 16:11
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 5
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
God speaks directly to Moses, bypassing the people temporarily, because they are not yet ready for unmediated revelation. Sinai will change this dynamic.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's response to our faithless prayers teach us His character?
- What does 'knowing the LORD' through provision reveal about experiential versus intellectual faith?
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Analysis & Commentary
I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel—God Himself now speaks, confirming that He has heard. The repetition emphasizes divine awareness—nothing escapes His notice. Yet 'hearing' leads not to punishment but to promise: 'ye shall eat flesh' and 'be filled with bread.' The phrase 'ye shall know that I am the LORD your God' (וִידַעְתֶּם כִּי אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם) echoes the covenant formula. Knowing YHWH comes through experiencing His provision, not merely witnessing judgment. This establishes a pattern: God responds to faithless cries with faithful provision, teaching His nature through undeserved grace.