Topical Bible: God: Supplying Manna and Quail

◄ God: Supplying Manna and Quail ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The miraculous provision of manna and quail by God to the Israelites during their wilderness journey is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament. This divine intervention is a testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to provide for His people in times of need.

Biblical Account

The primary account of God supplying manna and quail is found in the Book of Exodus, specifically in Exodus 16. After the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, they found themselves in the Desert of Sin, between Elim and Sinai. The people began to grumble against Moses and Aaron due to the lack of food, expressing a longing for the abundance they had in Egypt. In response to their complaints, God promised to rain down bread from heaven.

Exodus 16:4 states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people are to go out and gather enough for that day. In this way I will test whether or not they will follow My instructions.'"

Manna

Manna, described as a fine, flake-like substance, appeared on the ground each morning after the dew evaporated. The Israelites were instructed to gather only as much as they needed for each day, with a double portion to be collected on the sixth day to prepare for the Sabbath rest. This daily provision was a test of obedience and trust in God's provision.

Exodus 16:31 describes manna: "Now the house of Israel called the bread manna. It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey."

Quail

In addition to manna, God provided quail in the evening. This provision of meat was a response to the Israelites' craving for the flesh pots of Egypt. The quail came and covered the camp, providing an abundant supply of meat for the people.

Exodus 16:13 records, "So that evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp."

Theological Significance

The provision of manna and quail is rich with theological implications. It underscores God's sovereignty and His role as the ultimate provider. The daily gathering of manna taught the Israelites reliance on God, emphasizing the importance of faith and obedience. This event also prefigures the spiritual sustenance provided by Christ, who referred to Himself as the "bread of life" in John 6:35.

Lessons for Believers

For believers, the account of manna and quail serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and His ability to meet our needs. It encourages trust in God's provision and highlights the importance of obedience to His commands. The account also illustrates the dangers of grumbling and ingratitude, urging believers to maintain a posture of thankfulness and reliance on God.

Related Scriptures

· Numbers 11:4-34: Another account of the provision of quail, highlighting the Israelites' continued dissatisfaction and God's response.
· Deuteronomy 8:3: Moses reflects on the purpose of manna, teaching that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
· Psalm 78:23-29: A poetic recounting of God's provision in the wilderness, emphasizing His power and care for His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 16:13-15
And it came to pass, that at even the quails came up, and covered the camp: and in the morning the dew lay round about the host.
Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 11:31,32
And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day's journey on this side, and as it were a day's journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high on the face of the earth.
Nave's Topical Index