Exodus 16:34

And Aaron placed it in front of the Testimony, to be preserved just as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

And Aaron placed it in front of the Testimony
Aaron, as the high priest, had the responsibility of handling sacred objects. The "Testimony" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, which contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments. This act signifies the importance of preserving God's provision and commands. The placement in front of the Testimony indicates a position of honor and remembrance, emphasizing the manna as a divine provision and a testament to God's faithfulness. The Ark itself was housed in the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle, a sacred space that symbolized God's presence among His people.

to be preserved
The preservation of the manna was a physical reminder of God's miraculous provision during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. It served as a tangible witness to future generations of God's faithfulness and care. This act of preservation also prefigures the enduring nature of God's Word and promises, which are to be remembered and cherished by His people. The concept of preservation here can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the Bread of Life, preserved for all eternity.

just as the LORD had commanded Moses
This phrase underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. Moses, as the leader and prophet, received direct instructions from God, which were to be followed precisely. This obedience reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and provisions were contingent upon adherence to His commands. The phrase also highlights the role of divine authority and the necessity of following God's directives, a theme that runs throughout the Scriptures. Moses' obedience is a model for believers, pointing to the ultimate obedience of Christ, who fulfilled the Law perfectly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel who provides for His people and gives specific instructions for their obedience.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness.

3. Aaron
Moses' brother and the first high priest of Israel, who acts in obedience to God's command through Moses.

4. The Testimony (Ark of the Covenant)
The sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among them.

5. Preservation of Manna
The event where a portion of manna, the miraculous bread from heaven, is placed before the Testimony as a perpetual reminder of God's provision.

Teaching Points

God's Faithful Provision
Just as God provided manna for the Israelites, He provides for our needs today. Trust in His provision and remember His past faithfulness.

Obedience to God's Commands
Aaron's obedience in placing the manna before the Testimony highlights the importance of following God's instructions precisely. Reflect on areas in your life where God is calling you to obedience.

The Significance of Remembrance
The preserved manna served as a reminder of God's provision. Establish practices in your life that help you remember and celebrate God's faithfulness.

Symbolism of the Manna
Manna symbolizes God's Word and Jesus as the Bread of Life. Engage with Scripture regularly to nourish your spiritual life.

The Presence of God
The placement of manna before the Testimony signifies God's presence. Cultivate an awareness of God's presence in your daily life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the preservation of manna before the Testimony serve as a reminder of God's provision in your life today?

2. In what ways can you practice obedience to God's commands, as demonstrated by Aaron in this passage?

3. How does the concept of manna as the "bread from heaven" deepen your understanding of Jesus as the Bread of Life?

4. What are some practical ways you can establish reminders of God's faithfulness in your daily routine?

5. How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in your life, similar to the significance of the Ark of the Covenant for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9:4
This verse mentions the Ark of the Covenant and its contents, including the jar of manna, connecting the Old Testament provision with New Testament teachings on God's faithfulness and presence.

John 6:31-35
Jesus refers to the manna in the wilderness, identifying Himself as the true bread from heaven, which provides eternal life, thus linking the physical sustenance of manna to spiritual sustenance in Christ.

Psalm 78:24-25
This psalm recounts God's provision of manna, emphasizing His care and the miraculous nature of the sustenance He provided.