Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Description:Manna, often referred to as "bread from heaven," is a miraculous substance provided by God to the Israelites during their 40-year journey in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. It is described as a small, round substance, as fine as frost, appearing on the ground each morning except on the Sabbath. The name "manna" is derived from the Hebrew word "man hu," meaning "What is it?" as the Israelites questioned its nature upon first encountering it (Exodus 16:15). Biblical References: The primary account of manna is found in Exodus 16, where God provides it as sustenance for the Israelites. The narrative emphasizes God's provision and faithfulness, as well as His desire to test and teach His people reliance on Him. In Exodus 16:4 , the Lord declares, "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." Purpose and Significance: Manna served multiple purposes in the biblical narrative. Primarily, it was a tangible demonstration of God's glory and His ability to provide for His people in seemingly impossible circumstances. It was a daily reminder of God's presence and care, reinforcing the Israelites' dependence on Him. The provision of manna also served as a test of obedience, as the Israelites were instructed to gather only what was needed for each day, with a double portion on the sixth day to prepare for the Sabbath rest (Exodus 16:5). Symbolism and Typology: Manna holds significant symbolic meaning within the broader biblical context. It prefigures the spiritual sustenance provided by Christ, who is referred to as the "bread of life" in the New Testament. In John 6:31-35 , Jesus draws a parallel between Himself and manna, stating, "Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Jesus then declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst." Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, manna underscores the theme of divine provision and the necessity of faith in God's promises. It illustrates the principle that God's people are to live not by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord (Deuteronomy 8:3). Manna also highlights the importance of Sabbath observance, as the Israelites were commanded to rest and trust in God's provision without gathering food on the seventh day. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, the provision of food was a critical concern for nomadic and settled peoples alike. The miraculous nature of manna set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations, showcasing the unique relationship between Yahweh and His chosen people. The daily gathering of manna fostered a communal reliance on God and reinforced the covenant relationship established at Sinai. Conclusion: Manna remains a powerful testament to God's glory, faithfulness, and provision. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual nourishment found in Christ and the call to trust in God's daily provision for His people. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 16:7And in the morning, then you shall see the glory of the LORD; for that he hears your murmurings against the LORD: and what are we, that you murmur against us? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library John vi. 28-30 The Blood of the Covenant Paul's Departure and Crown; Rom. v. 12 Interpretation of Prophecy. "As Thy Days, So Shall Thy Strength Be" The Name Children Does not Imply Instruction in Elementary ... Letter Xlvi. Paula and Eustochium to Marcella. The Work of the Holy Spirit Apocryphal Traditions. Resources What was manna? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hidden manna mentioned in Revelation 2:17? | GotQuestions.org Why did the Israelites need manna if they had flocks/herds of animals that they could eat? | GotQuestions.org Manna: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Manna: A Golden Pot of, Laid up in the Holiest for a Memorial Manna: An Omer of, Gathered for Each Person Manna: Blessedness Given to Saints Manna: Called: Bread from Heaven Manna: Called: Bread of Heaven Manna: Ceased when Israel Entered Canaan Manna: Fell After the Evening Dew Manna: General Scriptures Concerning Manna: Given in Answer to Prayer Manna: Given: As a Sign of Moses's Divine Mission Manna: Given: As a Test of Obedience Manna: Given: To Exhibit God's Glory Manna: Given: To Humble and Prove Israel Manna: Given: To Teach That Man Does not Live by Bread Only Manna: Given: when Israel Murmured for Bread Manna: He That Gathered Much or Little had Sufficient and Nothing Manna: Kept Longer than a Day (Except on the Sabbath) Became Corrupt Manna: Like in Colour to Bdellium Manna: Like in Taste to Wafers Made With Honey Manna: Miraculously Given to Israel for Food in the Wilderness Manna: None Fell on the Sabbath Day Manna: Preserved in the Ark of the Testimony Manna: The Israelites: At First Covetous of Manna: The Israelites: Counted Inferior to Food of Egypt Manna: The Israelites: Ground, Made Into Cakes and Baked in Pans Manna: The Israelites: Loathed Manna: The Israelites: Punished for Despising Manna: The Israelites: Punished for Loathing Manna: Two Portions of, Gathered the Sixth Day on Account of The Related Terms Coriander-seed (2 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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