Exodus 16:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 16:7
7 And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the LORD; for that he heareth your murmurings against the LORD: and what are we, that ye murmur against us?
Chapter Context
Exodus 16 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, truth, covenant. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 16:7
7 And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the LORD; for that he heareth your murmurings against the LORD: and what are we, that ye murmur against us?
Analysis
And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the LORD—God's glory (כָּבוֹד, kavod) will be manifested through provision, not theophany alone. The glory appears 'for that he heareth your murmurings'—God's response to complaint reveals His character more than Israel's worthiness. Moses' question 'what are we?' echoes John the Baptist's self-effacement (John 1:23). The murmuring against leaders is actually against YHWH Himself, a principle Christ applies when He says 'he who rejects you rejects me' (Luke 10:16). God's hearing doesn't validate their complaint but shows His patience.
Historical Context
God's glory had previously appeared in the pillar of cloud/fire guiding them. Now that glory would manifest as daily bread, showing that provision is as much a display of divine glory as dramatic miracles.
Reflection
- How does God's provision in response to murmuring reveal the depths of His grace?
- When we complain against circumstances, how are we actually complaining against God?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Numbers 16:11
- Glory: Exodus 16:10, 24:16, 40:34, Numbers 14:10, 16:42, Isaiah 35:2