Exodus 16:8 Meaning and Explanation
“And Moses said, This shall be, when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur against him: and what are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses promises flesh and bread and clarifies that complaints are against God, not the leaders.
The Context of Exodus 16:8
Moses repeats the promise and reframes the people's complaint.
What Does Exodus 16:8 Mean?
Moses reiterates the promise: evening will bring quails (flesh), morning will bring manna (bread). The specificity of the promise—flesh and bread, two separate provisions—shows the completeness of God's care. The people will not merely survive; they will eat and be satisfied.
The repeated statement 'your murmurings are not against us, but against the LORD' is not accusation but teaching. Moses uses their complaint as a tool to help them see deeper truth: they are in covenant relationship with God, and even their discontent is heard and addressed by the One who made promises to them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 16:8
What does Exodus 16:8 mean?
Moses promises flesh and bread and clarifies that complaints are against God, not the leaders.
What is the context of Exodus 16:8?
Moses repeats the promise and reframes the people's complaint.