Manna
/ˈmæn.ə/noun
A substance miraculously provided as food for the Israelites in the wilderness, often interpreted as a divine gift.
Did you know?The term 'manna' is believed to derive from the Hebrew phrase meaning 'What is it?'—a true expression of wonder at the miraculous!
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Hebrew
Hebrew
מָן (mán)
“A mysterious food provided by God, described as fine, flake-like, and sweet.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
μαννα (manna)
“Direct borrowing from Hebrew; maintained the meaning of divine sustenance.”
Late Latin
Latin
manna
“Adopted from Greek; referred to the heavenly food in Christian texts.”
Middle English
Middle English
manna
“Used in biblical translations, referring to the miraculous food given to the Israelites.”
Modern English
English
manna
“Retains the biblical sense, symbolizing a divine or unexpected provision.”
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