Manna

Manna

Manna is a substance described in the Hebrew Bible as a food miraculously provided to the Israelites during their wandering in the wilderness. The term has since come to be used to refer to any unexpected or miraculous sustenance.

Description

According to the Bible, manna appeared on the ground each morning during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The food was described as being like coriander seed, white, and tasting like wafers made with honey. The manna was said to have been provided by God and sustained the Israelites for 40 years until they reached the Promised Land.

Interpretation

The story of manna has been interpreted in various ways by different religious traditions. In Judaism, manna is seen as a symbol of God's providence and a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God. In Christianity, manna is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the Eucharist and a symbol of Christ as the bread of life.

Cultural References

The story of manna has been referenced in literature, music, and popular culture over the years. In the novel "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck, the character Tom Joad refers to government aid as "manna from the government." The term has also been used in the titles of several books and movies, including the 2003 film "Manna From Heaven."

Scientific Theories

Several scientific theories have been proposed to explain the phenomenon of manna. Some have suggested that the manna was a type of resin produced by certain trees in the region, while others have proposed that it was a type of lichen or fungus. However, no conclusive evidence has been found to support these theories.

In Popular Culture

Manna has been referenced in popular culture in various forms, often as a metaphor for unexpected sustenance or provision. In the TV show "Lost," the character John Locke discovers a mysterious substance he calls "manna" on the island where the survivors are stranded. In the video game "Final Fantasy VII," a substance called "mako" is harvested from the planet and used as a source of energy, with the name "mako" being a reference to manna.

See Also

Bread of Life Eucharist Mana (Polynesian mythology)

External Links

Exodus 16:1-36 - Bible Gateway

Manna

Manna is a substance that, according to the Hebrew Bible, was provided by God to the Israelites during their travels in the desert after their exodus from Egypt. It is described as a miraculous food that appeared each morning, sustaining the Israelites for 40 years.

Description

Manna is described in the Book of Exodus as being like coriander seed, white, and tasting like wafers made with honey. In the Book of Numbers, it is described as having the appearance of bdellium. The Israelites were instructed to gather only as much as they needed for each day, except on the sixth day when they were to gather a double portion to prepare for the Sabbath.

Biblical Account

The story of manna is primarily found in the Book of Exodus (Exodus 16) and the Book of Numbers (Numbers 11). According to these texts, the Israelites began to complain about the lack of food in the desert, and God provided manna as a solution. Each morning, manna would appear on the ground after the dew evaporated, and the Israelites would collect it.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Manna holds significant symbolic meaning in Judaism and Christianity. In Judaism, it is seen as a test of faith and obedience, as the Israelites were commanded to gather only what they needed. In Christianity, manna is often seen as a precursor to the Eucharist, symbolizing God's provision and sustenance.

Scientific Theories

Various scientific theories have been proposed to explain the phenomenon of manna. Some suggest it could be a natural substance, such as the resin of certain trees or the secretions of insects. However, these theories remain speculative and do not fully account for the biblical description.

Related Pages

• Exodus
• Israelites
• Sabbath
• Eucharist
• Judaism
• Christianity