Exodus 16:5 (KJV)

What does Exodus 16:5 mean?

Exodus 16:5 says that on the sixth day, the Israelites were to gather and prepare twice as much manna as on the other days, so they would have enough for two days. This instruction set apart the sixth day from the rest of the week, making special preparation for the following day.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses about how the Israelites should handle the manna He would provide in the wilderness. The people were to gather manna daily, but on the sixth day, they needed to collect and prepare double so they would not need to gather food on the seventh day, which would later be explained as a day of rest.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 16:5

• "Sixth" — שִׁשִּׁי (shishshi): This word marks the sixth day as unique, hinting at a rhythm in the week that leads up to something special.
• "Prepare" — כוּן (kun): This word means to get something ready or set it in order, emphasizing that the people were to actively make arrangements ahead of time, not just gather.
• "Twice" — מִשְׁנֶה (mishneh): This word means double or twofold, clarifying that the amount gathered and prepared on the sixth day was to be exactly twice the usual daily portion.
• "Gather" — לָקַט (laqat): This word refers to collecting or picking up, which in this context is the daily act of gathering manna, showing the regular, hands-on work involved.

Why Exodus 16:5 matters

• Exodus 16:5 helps explain the origin of the Sabbath rest in Israel’s weekly rhythm, showing that God provided for their needs in advance so they could rest.
• The verse clears up that the double portion was not accidental or optional, but a direct instruction from God, highlighting obedience and trust in His provision.
• This instruction sets up the pattern for the rest of the chapter, where the people’s response to God’s command about the manna becomes a key theme.