King James Version

What Does Exodus 16:36 Mean?

Exodus 16:36 in the King James Version says “Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah.”

Exodus 16:36 · KJV

Context

34

As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept.

35

And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan.

36

Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah.

Read Exodus 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah—This editorial note defines the omer (עֹמֶר) measurement for later generations unfamiliar with the term. An ephah (אֵיפָה, about 22 liters) was standard grain measure; one-tenth ephah equals approximately 2 quarts—roughly a day's bread for one person. This precision shows God's provision is neither scarcity nor excess but sufficiency. The measurement's permanent record ensures future Israel understands exactly how much God provided daily. This 'daily bread' portion prefigures the Lord's Prayer request: 'Give us this day our daily bread' (Matt 6:11). God measures provision according to need, teaching contentment with divine sufficiency rather than craving abundance.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This note was likely added by later editor (Moses or subsequent scribe) to preserve measurement knowledge for generations who wouldn't know the omer/ephah system after settling in Canaan.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does God measuring daily provision teach about the sufficiency of His grace?
  2. How does 'one day's portion' combat both anxiety about scarcity and lust for excess?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וְהָעֹ֕מֶר1 of 4

“Now an omer”

H6016

properly, a heap, i.e., a sheaf; also an omer, as a dry measure

עֲשִׂרִ֥ית2 of 4

“is the tenth”

H6224

tenth; by abbreviation, tenth month or (feminine) part

הָֽאֵיפָ֖ה3 of 4

“part of an ephah”

H374

an ephah or measure for grain; hence, a measure in general

הֽוּא׃4 of 4
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 16:36 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 16:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 16:16Exodus 16:32-33

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