Old Testament
Exodus 16:23
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He told them, "This is what the LORD has said: 'Tomorrow is a day of complete rest, a holy Sabbath to the LORD. Bake what you want to bake and boil what you want to boil today. Then set aside whatever is left over and keep it until morning.'"
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And he said unto them, This is that which the LORD hath said, To morrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.
What Exodus 16:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God instructs the people about the importance of the Sabbath, a day set apart for rest and worship. He emphasizes that the day following this instruction will be a complete rest day dedicated to Him. The people are told to prepare their food in advance, baking and boiling what they need today. This preparation ensures they have enough to eat without working on the Sabbath. By saving leftovers until morning, they can honor the day of rest without worry. This command highlights the value of taking time to pause and reflect, allowing for spiritual renewal. It reminds us that rest is not just a break from work, but a sacred time to connect with God and recharge our spirits. The Sabbath serves as a reminder of balance in life, encouraging us to prioritize our well-being and relationship with the divine. By following this guidance, the people learn to trust in God's provision and care for their needs, even on days of rest, fostering a deeper sense of community and faith.
How to apply Exodus 16:23 to your life
Consider setting aside a day each week for rest and reflection. Use this time to disconnect from daily tasks and reconnect with what truly matters. Prepare in advance to ensure you can fully enjoy this sacred time without distractions or worries. Embrace the peace that comes from honoring this rhythm of life and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Manna and Quail (Exodus 16:1–36)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Exodus 16:23
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 16:23 teach about the Sabbath?
Exodus 16:23 emphasizes the importance of the Sabbath as a day of complete rest dedicated to the LORD. It instructs the people to prepare their food in advance so they can honor this holy day without the burden of work. This verse highlights the significance of taking time for spiritual renewal and reflection, reminding us that rest is essential for our well-being and relationship with God.
How can I prepare for the Sabbath according to Exodus 16:23?
To prepare for the Sabbath as outlined in Exodus 16:23, you should plan your meals in advance. Bake and boil what you need on the day before the Sabbath, ensuring you have enough food set aside to last through the day of rest. This preparation allows you to focus on worship and reflection without the distraction of daily chores, fostering a deeper connection with God.
Why is the Sabbath considered a holy day in Exodus 16:23?
The Sabbath is considered a holy day in Exodus 16:23 because it is set apart for rest and worship of the LORD. This day is meant to be free from work, allowing individuals to pause their daily routines and engage in spiritual practices. The holiness of the Sabbath serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of nurturing our relationship with Him.
What is the significance of resting on the Sabbath?
Resting on the Sabbath is significant because it provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal and reflection. It allows individuals to step back from their daily responsibilities and reconnect with their faith and community. This practice fosters trust in God's provision and encourages a balanced life, reminding us that rest is not just a break from work but a sacred time to recharge our spirits.
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