Exodus 16:36
Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah.
Original Language Analysis
וְהָעֹ֕מֶר
Now an omer
H6016
וְהָעֹ֕מֶר
Now an omer
Strong's:
H6016
Word #:
1 of 4
properly, a heap, i.e., a sheaf; also an omer, as a dry measure
עֲשִׂרִ֥ית
is the tenth
H6224
עֲשִׂרִ֥ית
is the tenth
Strong's:
H6224
Word #:
2 of 4
tenth; by abbreviation, tenth month or (feminine) part
Historical Context
This note was likely added by later editor (Moses or subsequent scribe) to preserve measurement knowledge for generations who wouldn't know the omer/ephah system after settling in Canaan.
Questions for Reflection
- What does God measuring daily provision teach about the sufficiency of His grace?
- How does 'one day's portion' combat both anxiety about scarcity and lust for excess?
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Analysis & Commentary
Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah—This editorial note defines the omer (עֹמֶר) measurement for later generations unfamiliar with the term. An ephah (אֵיפָה, about 22 liters) was standard grain measure; one-tenth ephah equals approximately 2 quarts—roughly a day's bread for one person. This precision shows God's provision is neither scarcity nor excess but sufficiency. The measurement's permanent record ensures future Israel understands exactly how much God provided daily. This 'daily bread' portion prefigures the Lord's Prayer request: 'Give us this day our daily bread' (Matt 6:11). God measures provision according to need, teaching contentment with divine sufficiency rather than craving abundance.