Manna Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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manna
[ˈmænə ]
Definition
religious context
Manna is a substance that, according to the Bible, was miraculously provided as food for the Israelites during their desert wanderings. It is described as appearing each morning, resembling coriander seed, and taste like wafers made with honey. In a broader sense, it can refer to any unexpected benefit or gift that comes at a crucial time.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The children found manna in the morning after the storm.
- In times of hardship, her kindness felt like manna from heaven.
- The charity was a source of manna for the struggling families.
- Manna fell from the sky as the community celebrated their perseverance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term comes from the Bible, where it describes miraculous food given to the Israelites in the desert.
- It is thought that 'manna' may have originated from the Hebrew word 'mān', which means 'What is it?'.
- Some historical references suggest that it could have been a type of resin from trees that locals collected.
Religious Significance
- In Christianity, manna symbolizes divine providence and the idea of God providing for human needs.
- Many Jewish traditions celebrate the giving of manna during the holiday of Passover, linking it to freedom and sustenance.
Literature
- In literary contexts, the term is often used metaphorically to describe any unexpected blessing or gift.
- Famous works, such as 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Dostoevsky, reference it as a source of crisis and wonder.
Modern Usage
- Today, 'manna' often refers to serendipitous moments, such as luck, fortune, or unexpected good outcomes.
- It’s commonly employed in various motivational speeches and self-help literature as a metaphor for life's blessings.
Culinary Context
- In certain cultures, recipes incorporate ingredients named 'manna', symbolizing nourishment and blessing.
- Some natural foods are dubbed 'manna' due to their life-sustaining properties, like acorns or wild grains.
Origin of 'manna'
The term 'manna' originates from Biblical Hebrew 'מָן' (mān), which denotes the miraculous food provided to the Israelites in the desert, believed to be sent from God as sustenance during their 40-year journey to the Promised Land. The first mention of manna can be found in the Book of Exodus, where it is described as appearing with the dew in the morning. The etymology is further tied to the Aramaic word 'מָן' (mān) meaning 'what is it?', symbolizing the people's initial bewilderment upon encountering this mysterious food. Throughout history, the concept of manna has transcended the Biblical narrative and is often used metaphorically to describe any unexpected or divine provision during times of need.