Exodus 16:7
ESV
and in the morning you shall see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your grumbling against the Lord. For what are we, that you grumble against us?"
NIV
and in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your grumbling against him. Who are we, that you should grumble against us?"
NASB
and in the morning you will see the glory of the Lord, for He hears your grumblings against the Lord; and what are we, that you grumble against us?'
CSB
and in the morning you will see the Lord’s glory because he has heard your complaints about him. For who are we that you complain about us?"
NLT
In the morning you will see the glory of the Lord, because he has heard your complaints, which are against him, not against us. What have we done that you should complain about us?'
KJV
And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the Lord; for that he heareth your murmurings against the Lord: and what are we, that ye murmur against us?
NKJV
And in the morning you shall see the glory of the Lord; for He hears your complaints against the Lord. But what are we, that you complain against us?”
What does Exodus 16:7 mean?
Despite seeing God's powerful care for the nation of Israel (Exodus 3:19–20; 12:40–41; 14:21–28), the people constantly lean towards pessimism and despair (Exodus 14:11–12; 15:24). They are often said to "grumble," as translated from a variety of related words. These all come from shared roots in Hebrew, which imply a discontent, stubborn, faithless sort of complaining.Recently, the people criticized Moses and Aaron in this way (Exodus 16:2–3). The popular concern was about food, which is a valid worry—but their attitude was unfair. Moses and Aaron explain that the Lord plans to demonstrate His power and love for Israel (Exodus 16:6). This will display God's glory for all to see. Scripture uses the Hebrew phrase kebod' YHWH, meaning the Lord's magnificence, renown, and power.
God has heard their complaints. At the same time, God is unhappy at how Israel has turned their unhappiness against Moses and Aaron. These are His uniquely appointed spokesmen (Exodus 4:13–16). They have proven to be faithful messengers of God (Exodus 14:31). To complain so shallowly against them is effectively a criticism of the Lord (Exodus 16:8).
