Exodus 16:27Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

However, certain individuals disregarded the Sabbath observance and ventured out to collect manna on the Sabbath but found none.

Why did God refrain from providing manna on the Sabbath? Although it was permissible for certain Israelites to observe the Sabbath in rest, He used this opportunity to demonstrate the importance of adhering to the commandment through their actions. Yet, He did not interrupt the natural order, as even on the Sabbath, the sun and moon continue to rise, clouds release rain, winds gust, and all forms of life continue to bring forth new generations.

O. O. Gerlach notes that at the onset of their journey through the wilderness, Israel was instructed in the commandments like a child, relying more on their experiences than on faith. Consequently, the manna would spoil if left until morning on regular days; on the Sabbath, some Israelites would still venture out in search of it despite Moses’ warnings, only to find none (v. 28). However, they faced no punishment for this, whereas transgressing the Sabbath after the law was given was met with the penalty of death (35: 2).