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Exodus 16:36 - Measure of manna's portion?

Exodus 16:36 - שמות 16:36

Hebrew Text

וְהָעֹמֶר עֲשִׂרִית הָאֵיפָה הוּא׃

English Translation

Now an ῾omer is the tenth part of an efa.

Transliteration

Veha'omer asirit ha'eifa hu.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהָעֹ֕מֶר עֲשִׂרִ֥ית הָאֵיפָ֖ה הֽוּא׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
וְהָעֹ֕מֶר עֲשִׂרִ֥ית הָאֵיפָ֖ה הֽוּא׃ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Measurement of the Omer

The verse states: "Now an omer is the tenth part of an efa" (Shemot 16:36). This provides a halachic definition of the omer, a unit of measure used in the Torah, particularly in the context of the Manna given to Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness.

Explanation from Rashi

Rashi (Shemot 16:36) explains that this verse serves as a clarification for future generations, ensuring they understand the exact measurement of the omer when bringing offerings or calculating tithes. The omer is one-tenth of an efa, which is a larger biblical measure. This precise definition is crucial for fulfilling mitzvot correctly.

Halachic Significance

According to the Rambam (Hilchot Bikkurim 6:15), the omer measurement is essential for:

  • The mitzvah of Sefirat HaOmer (counting the Omer), where the barley offering in the Beit HaMikdash was specifically an omer's worth.
  • Determining proper portion sizes for terumah (priestly tithes) and other agricultural laws.

Midrashic Insight

The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 25:7) connects the omer to divine providence. Just as Hashem provided exactly an omer of Manna per person—no more, no less—so too does He measure out sustenance for each individual with precision. This teaches trust in Hashem’s careful provision.

Practical Implications

In Talmudic discussions (Menachot 77a), the Sages derive that the omer must be measured with care, as it affects the validity of offerings. The Gemara emphasizes that even slight deviations in measurement could invalidate a korban, highlighting the importance of exactness in divine service.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Menachot 76b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the measurements of the omer and efa in the context of meal offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an 'omer' in Exodus 16:36?
A: An 'omer' is a unit of measurement mentioned in the Torah, specifically equal to one-tenth of an 'efa.' According to Rashi, this measurement was used to collect the manna in the desert, where each person gathered one omer per day (Exodus 16:16).
Q: Why does the Torah specify the measurement of an omer in Exodus 16:36?
A: The Torah specifies this measurement to teach precision in mitzvot (commandments). The Rambam (Hilchot Temidin u'Musafin 7:6) explains that measurements in the Torah ensure consistency in fulfilling halachic obligations, such as the amount of flour for meal offerings in the Beit HaMikdash (Temple).
Q: How does the omer measurement apply today?
A: Though we no longer bring meal offerings, the concept of the omer remains relevant in Jewish law. For example, the mitzvah of counting the Omer (Sefirat HaOmer) between Pesach and Shavuot derives its name from this measurement (Menachot 65b). Additionally, halachic measurements for challah separation and other mitzvot are based on biblical units like the omer.
Q: What is the spiritual lesson of the omer measurement in Exodus 16:36?
A: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 25:16) teaches that the omer measurement reminds us to take only what we need and avoid greed. Just as the Israelites gathered only one omer of manna per person, we should live with gratitude and trust in Hashem’s providence.