Exodus 16:9
And Moses spake vnto Aaron, Say vnto all the Congregation of the children of Israel, Come neere before the Lord: for hee hath heard your murmurings. Exodus 16:9 (KJV)
Exodus 16 is set during the Israelites’ wanderings in the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. Having crossed the Red Sea, they were now traveling toward the Promised Land, having been on the road for about two months and confronting shortages of food and water.
In this verse Moses speaks to his brother Aaron, who serves as his spokesperson. Moses instructs Aaron to address the whole congregation of Israel and to call them to come near before the LORD for an important announcement.
The people had been murmuring and grumbling about the scarcity of food (and earlier, about water), expressing dissatisfaction with their circumstances.
Moses tells Aaron to tell the assembled people that the LORD will provide wheat for them and rain for their seed, and that they are to keep a feast when these provisions arrive, while also inviting them to draw near to the Lord.
The verse indicates that God has heard the Israelites’ complaints and is aware of their needs. In the following verses God supplies manna and quail, demonstrating His faithfulness and provision.
These observations yield several applications. First, the Israelites’ murmuring reminds believers to trust God’s provision and to turn to prayer rather than complain when circumstances are harsh. Second, the passage underscores God’s attentiveness; believers can take comfort that their prayers are heard and their concerns understood. Third, the call to gather before the Lord highlights the value of corporate worship, prayer, and study, which foster unity and strengthen faith. Finally, the subsequent divine provision of manna and quail illustrates that God meets genuine need, encouraging believers to rely on His timing and care.
This study offers a brief overview of Exodus 16:9. For deeper insight, reading the entire chapter and consulting additional commentaries is recommended.
