Exodus 16:1

KJV

¶ And they took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin, which [is] between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they took their journey {H5265} from Elim {H362}, and all the congregation {H5712} of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} came {H935} unto the wilderness {H4057} of Sin {H5512}, which is between Elim {H362} and Sinai {H5514}, on the fifteenth {H2568}{H6240} day {H3117} of the second {H8145} month {H2320} after their departing out {H3318} of the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They traveled on from Eilim, and the whole community of the people of Isra'el arrived at the Seen Desert, between Eilim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after leaving the land of Egypt.

Berean Standard Bible

On the fifteenth day of the second month after they had left the land of Egypt, the whole congregation of Israel set out from Elim and came to the Desert of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai.

American Standard Version

And they took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 16:1 meticulously chronicles a pivotal moment in the Israelites' post-Exodus journey, detailing their departure from the refreshing oasis of Elim and their arrival, as a unified congregation, into the desolate Wilderness of Sin. This verse precisely situates their location between Elim and Mount Sinai and timestamps this significant transition to the fifteenth day of the second month after their liberation from Egypt, setting the stage for a period of intense testing, divine provision, and the subsequent reception of the Law at Sinai.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 16:1 serves as a crucial transitional verse, bridging the initial stages of the Exodus narrative with the profound events that will unfold in the wilderness. Prior to this, the Israelites had miraculously [crossed the Red Sea](/exodus/14-21 "Exodus 14:21 - Red Sea Crossing"), experienced God's provision of [sweetened water at Marah](/exodus/15-25 "Exodus 15:25 - Water at Marah"), and enjoyed a brief period of rest and abundance at [Elim, with its twelve springs and seventy palm trees](/exodus/15-27 "Exodus 15:27 - Elim's Oasis"). Their journey thus far has been marked by both miraculous deliverance and early tests of faith, demonstrating God's power and Israel's nascent grumbling. Their arrival in the Wilderness of Sin immediately precedes the narrative of God's miraculous provision of manna and quail, highlighting a significant shift from reliance on natural water sources to direct, daily dependence on divine sustenance. This passage anticipates the greater covenantal encounter at Mount Sinai, emphasizing the purposeful progression of God's leading.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The journey through the wilderness was a formidable undertaking for an estimated two to three million people, including men, women, children, and livestock. Such a vast multitude required immense resources, particularly water and food, which were notoriously scarce in the arid Sinai Peninsula. The "fifteenth day of the second month" (approximately mid-May to mid-June) places this event roughly one month after the Passover and the [Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/12-37 "Exodus 12:37 - Departure from Rameses"). This timing is highly significant as it marks the depletion of any provisions they might have carried from Egypt, thereby intensifying their dependence on God. The Wilderness of Sin (Hebrew: _Midbar Sin_) was a harsh, barren region, known for its challenging terrain and lack of natural resources, making it an ideal setting for God to demonstrate His omnipotent provision and to humble His people, teaching them to [live by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord](/deuteronomy/8-3 "Deuteronomy 8:3 - Man Does Not Live by Bread Alone"). This period was a divine classroom, preparing them for the covenant at Sinai.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 16:1 contributes to several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Providence and Guidance**, as God meticulously leads His people through each stage of their journey, even into challenging environments. This verse also introduces the theme of **Testing and Dependence**, as the Israelites are brought to a place where their self-sufficiency is stripped away, forcing them to rely entirely on God for daily sustenance. It underscores the importance of **Corporate Identity and Unity**, emphasizing that God's covenant and provision are for the entire "congregation" of Israel, shaping them into a unified nation. Furthermore, it subtly foreshadows the theme of **God's Faithfulness Amidst Human Rebellion**, setting the stage for Israel's impending complaints and God's unwavering, miraculous response, demonstrating His commitment to His covenant promises as seen throughout [Exodus](/exodus/1 "The Book of Exodus - Redemption and Covenant").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Elim (Hebrew, _ʼÊylim'_):** From the plural of a word meaning "palm-trees," Elim refers to a specific oasis where the Israelites found respite after the bitter waters of Marah. Its mention here emphasizes the transition from a place of refreshing and temporary abundance to the barren wilderness, highlighting a deliberate shift in their journey from comfort to renewed challenge and dependence on God.
* **Wilderness (Hebrew, _midbâr'_):** This term, meaning "a pasture" or "open field where cattle are driven," and by implication, "a desert," describes the desolate and arid region the Israelites entered. It signifies a place of scarcity and hardship, contrasting sharply with the lushness of Elim. This wilderness was not merely a geographical location but a crucible for spiritual formation, where God would teach His people reliance and obedience.
* **Congregation (Hebrew, _ʻêdâh'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "fixture" or "stated assemblage," signifies the collective identity and unity of the Israelites as a single, divinely chosen people. It emphasizes that God's covenantal relationship, His leading, and His provision were not for isolated individuals but for the entire community, shaping the identity of Israel as a nation under God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they took their journey from Elim":** This phrase signifies the continuation of their divinely guided pilgrimage. Having rested and been refreshed at Elim, the Israelites are now commanded to move forward, indicating that periods of rest and provision are often followed by renewed movement and challenges on the spiritual journey, all under God's sovereign direction.
* **"and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin":** This highlights the unified movement of the entire Israelite community. Their arrival in the Wilderness of Sin marks a significant geographical and spiritual transition from an oasis of comfort to a region of scarcity, setting the stage for a profound test of their faith and God's faithfulness in providing for their needs.
* **"which [is] between Elim and Sinai":** This precise geographical marker provides crucial context for the Wilderness of Sin's location, emphasizing its role as an intermediate and necessary stage on their journey to Mount Sinai. It underscores the purposeful direction of their travel, moving towards the place where they would receive the Law and enter into a deeper covenant with God.
* **"on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt":** This specific chronological detail is highly significant. It indicates that approximately one month has passed since the Exodus, a period during which any initial provisions carried from Egypt would have been exhausted. This timing creates a context of immediate and acute need and desperation, making God's subsequent provision of manna and quail all the more miraculous and demonstrative of His precise and providential care.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 16:1 primarily employs **Progression** and **Setting** to advance the narrative. The verse meticulously tracks the forward movement of the Israelite congregation, from the known point of Elim to the new, challenging **Setting** of the Wilderness of Sin. This geographical progression is not merely descriptive but **Foreshadows** the impending trials and divine provisions that will define this stage of their journey. The contrast between the lush Elim and the barren Wilderness of Sin serves as a subtle **Juxtaposition**, highlighting the cyclical nature of the spiritual journey, which includes both periods of rest and periods of rigorous testing. The precise **Chronological Marker** ("on the fifteenth day of the second month") adds a layer of realism and urgency, emphasizing the strategic timing of God's unfolding plan and the immediate need for His intervention, thereby heightening the anticipation for divine action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 16:1 underscores several profound theological themes crucial to understanding God's relationship with His people. It vividly portrays God's meticulous **Divine Guidance** and **Providence**, leading His vast congregation step-by-step through challenging terrain, even when the path seemed desolate. This journey into the Wilderness of Sin represents a period of **Testing and Dependence**, where Israel was stripped of self-sufficiency and forced to rely entirely on God for their daily sustenance. It highlights the importance of **Corporate Identity** and **Unity**, as the entire "congregation" experienced these trials and witnessed God's provision together, forging a shared history of divine faithfulness. The verse also implicitly introduces the theme of **God's Faithfulness Amidst Human Frailty**, setting the stage for Israel's grumbling and God's unwavering response, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant people.

* [Deuteronomy 8:2-3](/deuteronomy/8-2-3 "Deuteronomy 8:2-3 - God's Purpose in the Wilderness")
* [Psalm 78:19-20](/psalm/78-19-20 "Psalm 78:19-20 - Israel's Testing and God's Provision")
* [Nehemiah 9:20-21](/nehemiah/9-20-21 "Nehemiah 9:20-21 - God's Sustenance and Guidance in the Wilderness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 16:1 offers a timeless lesson for believers navigating their own spiritual journeys. Just as the Israelites moved from the comfort of Elim into the barren Wilderness of Sin, our lives often involve transitions from periods of rest and abundance to seasons of scarcity, challenge, and uncertainty. These "wilderness" experiences are not random detours but divinely appointed stages designed to deepen our dependence on God, reveal His faithfulness, and teach us to trust in His daily provision. It reminds us that even when the path ahead seems desolate or our resources dwindle, God is meticulously guiding our steps, preparing us for what lies ahead, and demonstrating His power in ways we might not otherwise witness. Our response in these moments of transition and testing reveals the true measure of our faith and reliance on the One who leads us through every season, reminding us that His presence and provision are sufficient, even in the most barren landscapes of life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Elim" (places of comfort or abundant provision) have I recently experienced, and what "Wilderness of Sin" (challenging transitions or periods of scarcity) might God be leading me into now?**
* **How does my attitude during periods of transition or perceived lack reflect my trust in God's ongoing provision and His sovereign guidance for my life?**
* **In what specific ways does this verse encourage me to embrace moments of complete dependence on God, rather than fearing or resisting them?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the "Wilderness of Sin" not being related to moral "sin"?**

Answer: The name "Wilderness of Sin" (Hebrew: _Midbar Sin_) is a geographical designation for a specific desert region in the Sinai Peninsula, located between Elim and Mount Sinai. It is crucial to understand that the Hebrew word "Sin" in this context is not related to the English word "sin," which refers to moral transgression against God. The name likely derives from an ancient lunar deity worshipped in the region or from a local botanical feature, such as the acacia trees prevalent there. Its significance lies in its role as a barren and challenging environment where God would miraculously provide manna and quail, teaching the Israelites to [depend on Him for their daily bread](/matthew/6-11 "Matthew 6:11 - Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread") and demonstrating His power to sustain them in impossible circumstances, thereby revealing His glory.

**Why is the precise timing ("on the fifteenth day of the second month") important?**

Answer: The precise timing, "on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt," is highly significant because it marks approximately one month since the Israelites' Exodus. This period would have been sufficient for any provisions they carried from Egypt to be depleted. Their arrival in the Wilderness of Sin, a notoriously barren region, at this exact moment of scarcity, created an immediate and acute need for food. This timing highlights God's strategic orchestration, setting the stage for His miraculous provision of manna and quail, which began the very next day. It underscores that God often allows His people to reach the end of their own resources so that His power and faithfulness can be unmistakably revealed, teaching them that [He is their ultimate provider](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs") and that true life comes from His word, not merely from physical sustenance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 16:1, by detailing Israel's journey into the Wilderness of Sin, profoundly foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Israel was led through a desolate wilderness where God provided manna, Jesus Himself was [led by the Spirit into the wilderness](/matthew/4-1 "Matthew 4:1 - Jesus Led into the Wilderness") for forty days to be tempted, demonstrating perfect obedience where Israel so often failed. The manna provided in the Wilderness of Sin, a miraculous bread from heaven, serves as a powerful type of Christ, who declared, "[I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus the Bread of Life") and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." He is the true spiritual nourishment, provided by God from heaven, who sustains us not for a temporary journey but for eternal life. Furthermore, Israel's journey through the wilderness, marked by testing and God's faithful leading towards the Promised Land and the Law at Sinai, points to Christ as the one who leads His new covenant people through the wilderness of this world, not merely to a physical land or a written code, but to Himself, the [fulfillment of the Law](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law") and the ultimate destination of our faith, where true rest and abundant life are found in His presence, for [He is our Sabbath rest](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 33:10

And they removed from Elim, and encamped by the Red sea.

Numbers 33:12

And they took their journey out of the wilderness of Sin, and encamped in Dophkah.

Exodus 17:1

¶ And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and [there was] no water for the people to drink.

Exodus 15:27

And they came to Elim, where [were] twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.

Ezekiel 30:15

And I will pour my fury upon Sin, the strength of Egypt; and I will cut off the multitude of No.

Ezekiel 30:16

And I will set fire in Egypt: Sin shall have great pain, and No shall be rent asunder, and Noph [shall have] distresses daily.