Exodus 16:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 16:20
20 Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them.
Chapter Context
Exodus 16 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, discipleship, obedience. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 16:20
20 Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them.
Analysis
Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank—Disobedience brings immediate consequences: worms (תּוֹלָע, tola') and stench (בָּאַשׁ, ba'ash). The rotting manna illustrates that God's gifts cannot be preserved by human effort contrary to His command—what is meant for today becomes corruption tomorrow when hoarded in unbelief. The 'some of them' (אֲנָשִׁים, anashim) indicates not universal rebellion but sufficient disobedience to require Moses' anger. This failed hoarding teaches that security comes from God's faithfulness, not accumulated resources. Rotten manna becomes a daily object lesson: trust tested proves trust's absence. The stench makes disobedience public, showing that private unbelief has communal consequences.
Historical Context
The rotting manna served as immediate public evidence of disobedience, reinforcing the daily trust God required. No one could secretly hoard without exposed corruption.
Reflection
- What 'rotting manna' in your life reveals attempts to secure tomorrow through disobedient means?
- How does the stench of hoarded manna picture how private disobedience becomes public shame?