The answer is: 40 Years in the Wilderness

Exodus 16:35 - The Israelites wandered for 40 years in the desert due to their disobedience and lack of faith. This journey taught them reliance on God, as He provided manna. Interestingly, the number 40 appears frequently in the Bible, symbolizing testing and purification, such as Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2).