Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the 'fine flaky substance' mentioned in Exodus 16:14?
A: The 'fine flaky substance' is the manna that Hashem provided for the Israelites in the wilderness. According to Rashi, it was a miraculous food that appeared each morning after the dew lifted, sustaining the Jewish people during their 40 years in the desert.
Q: Why does the verse compare the manna to 'hoar frost'?
A: The comparison to hoar frost (כְּפֹר) teaches us about the appearance and texture of the manna. The Midrash explains that it looked like frost to show it was delicate and pure, and like frost that covers the ground evenly, the manna was distributed equally to all Israelites regardless of their status.
Q: What lesson can we learn from how the manna appeared?
A: The manna teaches us about trust in Hashem's providence. As Rambam explains, it appeared daily to show that our sustenance comes from Hashem. Just as the Israelites had to collect it each morning without storing extra (except before Shabbat), we learn to rely on Hashem's daily blessings rather than excessive hoarding.
Q: Why did the manna appear after the dew lifted?
A: According to the Talmud (Yoma 75b), the manna was covered by layers of dew to protect and preserve it. This shows Hashem's kindness in providing food in perfect condition. The Sages also teach that the dew symbolized purity, indicating the spiritual nature of this heavenly sustenance.
Q: How does the description of manna in this verse relate to Shabbat?
A: This verse introduces the manna which connects to Shabbat observance. As the Torah later explains (Exodus 16:22-26), no manna fell on Shabbat, teaching us to sanctify the day. The Mechilta explains that the double portion on Friday (lechem mishneh) symbolizes Shabbat's special status as a day of spiritual nourishment.
The Revelation of the Manna
The verse (Shemot 16:14) describes the miraculous appearance of the manna, the heavenly sustenance provided to Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness. The Torah emphasizes its delicate, flaky texture—"דַק מְחֻסְפָּס דַּק כַּכְּפֹר"—comparing it to frost, highlighting its purity and divine origin.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "דַק מְחֻסְפָּס" refers to the manna's fine, layered structure, resembling a seed's protective shell (חִסְפָּס). He notes that the dew first covered the ground, then lifted to reveal the manna beneath—a sign of divine care, ensuring the manna remained fresh and untouched by the earth's impurities.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (3:24), Rambam views the manna as a supernatural phenomenon meant to instill trust in divine providence. Its daily appearance reinforced the lesson that sustenance comes from Hashem alone, independent of natural agricultural cycles.
Symbolism of the Dew
The covering and lifting of the dew (שִׁכְבַת הַטָּל) allude to the hidden and revealed blessings of divine providence. Just as the dew protected and unveiled the manna, Hashem's kindness often operates subtly before becoming manifest (Malbim).