Exodus 16:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 16:8
8 And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
Chapter Context
Exodus 16 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, grace. 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 16:8
8 And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.
Analysis
For that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we?—Moses' rhetorical question establishes that all rebellion against appointed leadership ultimately targets God's authority. The repetition of 'murmurings' (four times in vv.7-8) emphasizes the seriousness of complaining against God's providence. The evening flesh and morning bread demonstrate God's sovereignty over both evening (darkness, difficulty) and morning (light, provision). This pattern foreshadows Christ's passion (evening betrayal) and resurrection (morning victory). God providing even during their rebellion shows grace that doesn't wait for repentance to act.
Historical Context
Moses and Aaron served as mediators between God and Israel, prefiguring Christ's mediatorial role. Complaints against mediators are complaints against the One who appointed them.
Reflection
- How does distinguishing between God's servants and God Himself help navigate church conflict?
- What does God's provision during our murmuring reveal about His covenant faithfulness?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Numbers 21:7, 1 Samuel 8:7
- Parallel theme: Numbers 14:27, Luke 10:16, Romans 13:2, 1 Thessalonians 4:8