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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 16:1–12. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The host of Israel, it seems, took along with them out of Egypt, when they came thence on the fifteenth day of the first month, a month's provisions, which, by the fifteenth day of the second month, was all spent; and here we have,
I.Their discontent and murmuring upon that occasion, Exo 16:2, Exo 16:3.
The whole congregation, the greatest part of them, joined in this mutiny; it was not immediately against God that they murmured, but (which was equivalent) against Moses and Aaron, God's viceregents among them.
1.They count upon being killed in the wilderness - nothing less, at the first appearance of disaster. If the Lord had been pleased to kill them, he could easily have done that in the Red Sea; but then he preserved them, and now could as easily provide for them. It argues great distrust of God, and of his power and goodness, in every distress and appearance of danger to despair of life, and to talk of nothing but being speedily killed.
2.They invidiously charge Moses with a design to starve them when he brought them out of Egypt; whereas what he had done was both by order from God and with a design to promote their welfare. Note, It is no new thing for the greatest kindnesses to be misinterpreted and basely represented as the greatest injuries. The worst colours are sometimes put upon the best actions. Nay,
3.They so far undervalue their deliverance that they wish they had died in Egypt, nay, and died by the hand of the Lord too, that is, by some of the plagues which cut off the Egyptians, as if it were not the hand of the Lord, but of Moses only, that brought them into this hungry wilderness. It is common for people to say of that pain, or sickness, or sore, of which they see not the second causes, "It is what pleases God," as if that were not so likewise which comes by the hand of man, or some visible accident. Prodigious madness! They would rather die by the fleshpots of Egypt, where they found themselves with provision, than live under the guidance of the heavenly pillar in a wilderness and be provided for by the hand of God! they pronounce it better to have fallen in the destruction of God's enemies than to bear the fatherly discipline of his children! We cannot suppose that they had any great plenty in Egypt, how largely soever they now talk of the flesh-pots; nor could they fear dying for want in the wilderness, while they had their flocks and herds with them. But discontent magnifies what is past, and vilifies what is present, without regard to truth or reason. None talk more absurdly than murmurers. Their impatience, ingratitude, and distrust of God, were so much the worse in that they had lately received such miraculous favours, and convincing proofs both that God could help them in the greatest exigencies and that really he had mercy in store for them. See how soon they forgot his works, and provoked him at the sea, even at the Red Sea, Psa 106:7-13. Note, Experiences of God's mercies greatly aggravate our distrusts and murmurings.
II.The care God graciously took for their supply.
Justly he might have said, "I will rain fire and brimstone upon these murmurers, and consume them;" but, quite contrary, he promises to rain bread upon them. Observe,
1.How God makes known to Moses his kind intentions, that he might not be uneasy at their murmurings, nor be tempted to wish he had let them alone in Egypt.
(1.)He takes notice of the people's complaints: I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, Exo 16:12. As a God of pity, he took cognizance of their necessity, which was the occasion of their murmuring; as a just and holy God, he took cognizance of their base and unworthy reflections upon his servant Moses, and was much displeased with them. Note, When we begin to fret and be uneasy, we ought to consider that God hears all our murmurings, though silent, and only the murmurings of the heart. Princes, parents, masters, do not hear all the murmurs of their inferiors against them, and it is well they do not, for perhaps they could not bear it; but God hears, and yet bears. We must not think, because God does not immediately take vengeance on men for their sins, that therefore he does not take notice of them; no, he hears the murmurings of Israel, and is grieved with this generation, and yet continues his care of them, as the tender parent of the froward child.
(2.)He promises them a speedy, sufficient, and constant supply, Exo 16:4. Man being made out of the earth, his Maker has wisely ordered him food out of the earth, Psa 104:14. But the people of Israel, typifying the church of the first-born that are written in heaven, and born from above, and being themselves immediately under the direction and government of heaven, receiving their charters, laws, and commissions, from heaven, from heaven also received their food: their law being given by the disposition of angels, they did also eat angels' food. See what God designed in making this provision for them: That I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law or no.
[1.]Thus he tried whether they would trust him, and walk in the law of faith or no, whether they could live from hand to mouth, and (though now uneasy because their provisions were spent) could rest satisfied with the bread of the day in its day, and depend upon God for fresh supplies tomorrow.
[2.]Thus he tried whether they would serve him, and be always faithful to so good a Master, that provided so well for his servants; and hereby he made it appear to all the world, in the issue, what an ungrateful people they were, whom nothing could affect with a sense of obligation. Let favour be shown to them, yet will they not learn righteousness, Isa 26:10.
2.How Moses made known these intentions to Israel, as God ordered him. Here Aaron was his prophet, as he had been to Pharaoh. Moses directed Aaron what to speak to the congregation of Israel (Exo 16:9); and some think that, while Aaron was giving a public summons to the congregation to come near before the Lord, Moses retired to pray, and that the appearance of the glory of the Lord (Exo 16:10) was in answer to his prayer. They are called to come near, as Isa 1:18, Come, and let us reason together. Note, God condescends to give even murmurers a fair hearing; and shall we then despise the cause of our inferiors when they contend with us? Job 31:13.
(1.)He convinces them of the evil of their murmurings. They thought they reflected only upon Moses and Aaron, but here they are told that God was struck at through their sides. This is much insisted on (Exo 16:7, Exo 16:8): "Your murmurings are not against us, then we would have been silent, but against the Lord; it was he that led you into these straits, and not we." Note, When we murmur against those who are instruments of any uneasiness to us, whether justly or unjustly, we should do well to consider how much we reflect upon God by it; men are but God's hand. Those that quarrel with the reproofs and convictions of the word, and are angry with their ministers when they are touched in a tender part, know not what they do, for therein they strive with their Maker. Let this for ever stop the mouth of murmuring, that it is daring impiety to murmur at God, because he is God; and gross absurdity to murmur at men, because they are but men.
(2.)He assures them of the supply of their wants, that since they had harped upon the flesh-pots so much they should for once have flesh in abundance that evening, and bread the next morning, and so on every day thenceforward, Exo 16:8, Exo 16:12. Many there are of whom we say that they are better fed than taught; but the Israelites were thus fed, that they might be taught. He led him about, he instructed him (Deu 32:10); and, as to this instance, see Deu 8:3, He fed thee with manna, that thou mightest know that man doth not live by bread only. And, besides this, here are two things mentioned, which he intended to teach them by sending them manna: - [1.] By this you shall know that the Lord hath brought you out from the land of Egypt, Exo 16:6. That they were brought out of Egypt was plain enough; but so strangely sottish and short-sighted were they that they said it was Moses that brought them out, Exo 16:3. Now God sent them manna, to prove that it was no less than infinite power and goodness that brought them out, and this could perfect what was begun. If Moses only had brought them out of Egypt, he could not thus have fed them; they must therefore own that that was the Lord's doing, because this was so, and both were marvellous in their eyes; yet, long afterwards, they needed to be told that Moses gave them not this bread from heaven, Joh 6:32. [2.] By this you shall know that I am the Lord your God, Exo 16:12. This gave proof of his power as the Lord, and his particular favour to them as their God. When God plagued the Egyptians, it was to make them know that he was the Lord; when he provided for the Israelites, it was to make them know that he was their God.
3.How God himself manifested his glory, to still the murmurings of the people, and to put a reputation upon Moses and Aaron, Exo 16:10. While Aaron was speaking, the glory of the Lord appeared in the cloud. The cloud itself, one would think, was enough both to strike an awe upon them and to give encouragement to them; yet, in a few days, it had grown so familiar to them that it made no impression upon them, unless it shone with an unusual brightness. Note, What God's ministers say to us is then likely to do us good when the glory of God shines in with it upon our souls.
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Summary
Exodus 16:9 encapsulates a pivotal moment in Israel's wilderness journey, illustrating God's profound attentiveness and compassionate response to human discontent. Following their miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage, the Israelites, facing the harsh realities of the Wilderness of Sin, voiced deep complaints against Moses and Aaron, effectively murmuring against God Himself. This verse records God's direct command for the entire congregation to draw near, not for condemnation, but to witness His imminent display of glory and provision, thereby transforming a moment of faithless grumbling into an opportunity for divine revelation and renewed trust.
Context
Literary Context
Exodus 16:9 is strategically placed within a crucial narrative sequence that highlights Israel's initial post-Exodus challenges and God's consistent faithfulness. The preceding verses Exodus 16:1-3 establish the dire circumstances—the Israelites' hunger in the Wilderness of Sin—and their subsequent "murmuring" against Moses and Aaron, expressing a nostalgic desire for the perceived security of Egypt. Moses and Aaron, understanding the true nature of their complaints, immediately bring these grievances before the LORD Exodus 16:6-8. Verse 9, therefore, functions as the divine directive for a public assembly, setting the stage for God's direct intervention and miraculous provision. This divine command precedes the appearance of quails in the evening and manna in the morning, detailed in Exodus 16:13-15, serving to validate God's leadership and His unwavering care for His people.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Israelites had recently witnessed and experienced extraordinary acts of divine power, including the ten plagues against Egypt Exodus 7, Exodus 8, Exodus 9, Exodus 10, Exodus 11, Exodus 12, the Passover deliverance Exodus 12, and the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea Exodus 14. Despite these overwhelming demonstrations of God's might and covenant faithfulness, their journey into the desolate wilderness presented immediate and severe challenges, particularly the lack of sustenance. This context of scarcity, combined with a deeply ingrained mindset of dependence from generations of slavery, fostered a recurring pattern of "murmuring" (Hebrew: təlunnâh) against their divinely appointed leaders and, implicitly, against God Himself. This grumbling was more than mere complaint; it signified a profound lack of trust in God's ability or willingness to sustain them. The invitation to "Come near before the LORD" in this setting represents a critical moment of divine encounter, designed to re-establish trust, demonstrate God's absolute sovereignty over their physical needs, and reinforce His covenant relationship with His newly liberated people.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Providence and Provision, demonstrating God's commitment to sustaining His people even in the most desolate circumstances, often in miraculous ways. Secondly, it highlights the recurring theme of Human Discontent and Rebellion, as the Israelites repeatedly grumble despite God's faithfulness, revealing the deep-seated sin of unbelief that characterized much of their wilderness journey (e.g., Numbers 14:27). Thirdly, it reinforces the theme of God's Attentiveness and Patience, showing that even in the face of sinful complaints, God hears His people and responds with grace, seeking to draw them closer to Himself rather than immediately punishing their faithlessness. Finally, it emphasizes the Mediatorial Role of Moses and Aaron, as they serve as the crucial link between God's commands and the congregation's experience of divine revelation and provision, a role seen throughout the book of Exodus.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H8519), derived from the root meaning "to grumble" or "to lodge," refers to a deep-seated, often obstinate, and resentful expression of discontent. In the context of Exodus, it describes not merely the voicing of a need but a faithless questioning of God's leadership and provision, frequently accompanied by a nostalgic longing for the past, even if that past was one of bondage. God's act of "hearing" these "murmurings" highlights His omnipresence and attentiveness, even to the unrighteous complaints of His people, setting the stage for His sovereign response.
This imperative verb (H7126) signifies a command to approach, draw close, or bring near. In a cultic or theological context, "coming near before the LORD" often implies approaching for worship, sacrifice, or a divine encounter, frequently in a sacred space or in preparation for a revelation of God's presence or power. Here, it is a direct call for the entire congregation to assemble and witness God's response, transforming a moment of human complaint into an unprecedented opportunity for divine revelation and a renewed understanding of God's majestic character and unwavering care.
Verse Breakdown
"And Moses spake unto Aaron,"
This opening clause establishes the divine chain of communication and authority. God speaks to Moses, who then relays the divine message to Aaron. This highlights Moses's unique and indispensable role as God's chosen mediator, and Aaron's complementary role as his spokesman, responsible for communicating God's will and commands to the assembled congregation.
"Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel,"
This phrase underscores the collective nature of the divine command and the public scope of the impending revelation. God's response is not intended for a select few or for private consumption, but for the entire community of Israel, emphasizing His desire for all His people to witness His glory, acknowledge His sovereignty, and experience His faithful provision.
"Come near before the LORD:"
This is the central, imperative command of the verse, an urgent invitation for the people to physically and spiritually draw close to God's manifested presence. It functions as a solemn summons to attention, an urgent call to an encounter where God Himself will directly address their grievances, shifting their focus from their grumbling and perceived lack to His majestic presence and impending intervention.
"for he hath heard your murmurings."
This concluding clause provides the divine motivation and compassionate rationale for the command to draw near. It reassures the people that God is neither oblivious nor indifferent to their plight or their complaints, even if those complaints are rooted in faithlessness and distrust. It emphatically underscores God's active attentiveness and His immediate intention to respond, thereby setting the stage for the miraculous provision of manna and quails that follows.
Literary Devices
Exodus 16:9 effectively employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. Direct Address is prominently featured as Moses, through Aaron, issues a direct command to "all the congregation of the children of Israel," creating an immediate and urgent sense of responsibility and expectation for the people to respond. The phrase "for he hath heard your murmurings" utilizes Anthropomorphism, attributing the human characteristic of hearing to God. This device makes God's attentiveness relatable and emphasizes His active, personal engagement with human affairs, reassuring the people that their cries—even their unrighteous grumbles—do not go unnoticed by the divine. Furthermore, the imperative "Come near before the LORD" functions as a powerful Call to Encounter, transforming a moment of human complaint and doubt into an invitation for a profound divine revelation. This call is highly symbolic, inviting the people not merely to physical proximity but to a spiritual readiness to witness God's power and provision, thereby shifting their focus from their own desires and perceived lack to God's sovereign care and abounding grace.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 16:9 profoundly reveals God's multifaceted character as both sovereign and deeply compassionate. Despite the Israelites' repeated "murmurings"—a recurring sin throughout their wilderness journey that consistently demonstrated a profound lack of faith and trust in His leadership—God does not abandon them to their complaints or immediately mete out judgment. Instead, He hears their grievances and responds with an invitation to draw near, not for condemnation, but for a magnificent demonstration of His unfailing provision and glory. This act foreshadows God's continuous, gracious care for His people, even in their spiritual shortcomings and moments of rebellion, highlighting His enduring grace and faithfulness that transcend human sin. It establishes a divine pattern where God's response to human need often involves a revelation of His glory and a call to a deeper, more trusting relationship.
Reflection and Application
Exodus 16:9 serves as a profound and timeless mirror for our own spiritual journey. It powerfully reminds us that God is intimately attentive to our every word, even our complaints and expressions of discontent. The Israelites' murmuring stemmed from a profound lack of trust in God's provision, despite His overwhelming past faithfulness. This narrative compels us to critically examine the nature of our own "murmurings" – are they genuine cries for help rooted in humble dependence, or are they expressions of impatience, doubt, fear, or a desire to control circumstances rather than faithfully trusting God's perfect timing and sovereign wisdom? The divine invitation to "come near before the LORD" is equally relevant and urgent for believers today. In moments of anxiety, perceived scarcity, or deep frustration, we are called not to withdraw in complaint or self-pity but to actively draw closer to God's presence. This drawing near is an essential act of faith, a humble acknowledgment of His absolute sovereignty, and a confident expectation of His divine care and intervention. It profoundly encourages us to shift our focus from our perceived lack to the inexhaustible abundance of God's grace and provision, fostering a spirit of gratitude, peace, and unwavering trust even amidst the most challenging circumstances of life.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did God respond to the Israelites' complaining, even though it was a sign of their lack of faith?
God's response to the Israelites' murmuring, despite its origin in their lack of faith, profoundly highlights His compassionate and covenantal nature. While their complaints were indeed sinful and indicative of deep distrust, God chose to demonstrate His faithfulness and power. This was not an endorsement of their grumbling but an act of immense grace designed to teach them about His character and to sustain them physically in the wilderness. It underscores that God's love and unwavering commitment to His people often precede and even prompt their repentance and growth in faith. His immediate provision of manna and quails Exodus 16:13-15 was a tangible sign of His enduring care, even for a rebellious people, aiming to build their trust.
What does "come near before the LORD" mean for believers today?
For believers today, "come near before the LORD" signifies an invitation to intimate communion, reverent worship, and confident access to God's presence. While the physical manifestation of God's presence was unique and visible in the wilderness, through the finished work of Jesus Christ, we now have direct, unhindered access to God's presence. It means approaching God in prayer, through worship, and by diligently studying His Word with both reverence and confident expectation. It is a profound call to draw near with confidence to the throne of grace Hebrews 4:16, knowing that because of Jesus, our great High Priest, we are welcomed into His presence to receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need. Ultimately, it's an invitation to shift our focus from our problems and anxieties to God's sovereign presence, inexhaustible power, and unfailing love.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Exodus 16:9, with its vivid depiction of God hearing Israel's murmurings and extending an invitation for them to "come near," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Israelites' complaints arose from physical hunger, prompting God to miraculously provide manna, the "bread from heaven" Exodus 16:4. This miraculous provision serves as a direct and powerful foreshadowing of Jesus, who unequivocally declares Himself to be the true "bread of life" John 6:35. Unlike the temporary manna that sustained only physical life and eventually ceased, Jesus offers spiritual sustenance that leads to eternal life, satisfying the deepest hunger of the human soul in a way no earthly provision ever could. Furthermore, the imperative command to "come near before the LORD" is perfectly and eternally realized in Christ. Under the Old Covenant, drawing near to God often involved specific rituals, the mediation of priests, and a pervasive sense of distance due to human sin. However, Jesus, through His perfect life, atoning death on the cross, and glorious resurrection, has become the ultimate and eternal High Priest Hebrews 4:14 who enables us to "draw near with confidence to the throne of grace" Hebrews 4:16. He fully hears our cries, not just our complaints, but our prayers, our deepest longings, and our unspoken needs, and He continually intercedes for us at the right hand of God Romans 8:34. In Christ, God's compassionate attentiveness to human need and His gracious invitation to intimate communion are perfectly and eternally embodied, offering not just temporary provision but everlasting life and an unbreakable, personal relationship with the Father John 14:6.