The phrase “Manna from Heaven” is often used to describe an unexpected gift or a sudden stroke of good fortune. But is that truly what Manna was? In reality, the Manna provided to the Jewish people in the desert was not just a one-time gift; it was a daily miracle that sustained them for forty years. You might think that after thirty years or so, they would have come to expect it without question.

One of the unique aspects of the Manna was that it couldn’t be stored for the next day. If any was kept overnight, it would spoil. The people had to trust that Hashem would provide fresh Manna each morning, day after day, and that He would always meet their needs.

Rabbi Shalom Rosner quotes Rabbi Shlomo Zevin, who outlines three key lessons that Hashem wanted to teach the Jewish people through the Manna:

Lesson 1: Equality – Each person received exactly what they needed—no more and no less. If someone tried to gather extra, it would only be the right amount for their needs. If someone gathered less, it would be enough for them as well. This teaches us that Hashem provides exactly what we need. While we are required to do our “hishtadlut” (effort), at the end of the day, whether we do more or less, we will receive what Hashem has determined we need.

Lesson 2: Purity – The Manna was perfect food. Every part of it nourished the body, leaving no waste. Similarly, our livelihood should be earned in a pure and honest manner, with no excess or waste attached. It’s important that we avoid any form of dishonesty, such as lying, stealing, or any other transgression, in the process of earning a living. Our efforts must be completely pure.

Lesson 3: Attitude – The Manna had a unique quality: it could taste however the person consuming it desired. This teaches us that when Hashem provides for us, the way it is presented may vary, but it’s ultimately our attitude that determines how we experience it. A positive outlook can transform even the most challenging situations into something satisfying, while a negative attitude can make even the best blessings feel unsatisfactory.

Manna from Heaven should be how we view everything we have. We need to make the best of what Hashem has provided us with, earn an honest living, and appreciate what we have.

Good Shabbos,

Rabbi Shaps and the JET Team