Manna appeared with the dew to illustrate God’s provision in a pure, consistent, and miraculous manner. When the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, God fed them daily with manna from heaven. Exodus 16:13–14 describes its appearance:
“And in the morning the dew lay all around the camp. And when the layer of dew lifted, there, on the surface of the wilderness, was a small round substance, as fine as frost on the ground.”
The dew served as a covering and delivery mechanism for the manna, keeping it clean and highlighting its divine origin. It symbolized purity and freshness, untainted by human hands. This heavenly bread came without labor or cultivation, testifying to God’s power and care.
Numbers 11:9 adds:
“And when the dew fell on the camp in the night, the manna fell on it.”
God’s provision was both predictable and supernatural. Every morning it arrived with the dew, except on the Sabbath, when none would fall. This rhythm trained Israel to trust God’s instructions and rely on Him daily.
The dew and manna together reinforced the lesson of dependence. Just as the dew gently nourishes the ground, God faithfully sustained His people with what they needed… no more, no less.
Jesus later identified Himself as the true bread from heaven:
“Most assuredly, I say to you, Moses did not give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from heaven.” (John 6:32)
The dew-covered manna points to Christ, who came in humility and purity to give life to the world. Believers are to seek Him daily as the sustenance for their souls.
