Numbers 16:27

So they moved away from the dwellings of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. Meanwhile, Dathan and Abiram had come out and stood at the entrances to their tents with their wives and children and infants.

Study Bible

So they got away
This phrase indicates a decisive action taken by the people in response to a warning. The Hebrew root for "got away" is "nāsā'," which means to pull up, set out, or depart. This action reflects obedience and a recognition of the impending judgment from God. In a broader spiritual context, it serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding divine warnings and separating oneself from sin and rebellion.

from the dwellings
The term "dwellings" comes from the Hebrew "mishkan," which can mean a residence or habitation. In the context of the Israelites, it often refers to the tabernacle or a place of dwelling. Here, it signifies the physical and spiritual separation from those who have chosen to rebel against God's appointed leadership. It underscores the necessity of distancing oneself from influences that lead away from God's will.

of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram
These names represent the leaders of a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron, as recorded in Numbers 16. Korah, a Levite, along with Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben, challenged the authority given by God. Historically, this rebellion is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the rejection of divinely established order. It serves as a warning against the spirit of rebellion that can arise within a community of faith.

Meanwhile, Dathan and Abiram had come out
The phrase "had come out" suggests a deliberate action by Dathan and Abiram to confront Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew verb "yatsa'" means to go out or come forth. This action reflects their defiance and lack of repentance, standing in stark contrast to those who chose to separate themselves from the rebellion. It highlights the tragic consequences of hardening one's heart against God's commands.

and were standing at the entrances of their tents
Standing at the entrances of their tents symbolizes a public declaration of their stance. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the entrance of a tent or house was a place of significance, often associated with decision-making and hospitality. Here, it represents their open defiance and the choice to remain in opposition to God's will. It serves as a visual representation of their obstinacy and the impending judgment they face.

with their wives and children and infants
This phrase emphasizes the communal and familial impact of rebellion. The inclusion of wives, children, and infants underscores the far-reaching consequences of sin, affecting not just the individual but also their family and community. It serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibility leaders have to guide their families in righteousness and the potential repercussions of failing to do so. In a broader spiritual sense, it calls believers to consider the legacy they leave for future generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Korah
A Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and the priesthood.

2. Dathan and Abiram
Reubenites who joined Korah in his rebellion, questioning Moses' leadership and God's chosen order.

3. The Dwellings
The tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, which became the focal point of God's impending judgment.

4. The Congregation
The Israelites who were instructed to distance themselves from the rebels to avoid sharing in their punishment.

5. The Rebellion
A significant event where Korah, Dathan, and Abiram opposed Moses, leading to divine judgment.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rebellion
Rebellion against God’s appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites were instructed to separate themselves from the rebels, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands to avoid sharing in the judgment.

Leadership and Authority
God establishes leaders for His purposes. Challenging this divine order can lead to severe consequences, as seen in the fate of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

Family and Influence
The presence of the families of Dathan and Abiram at the entrances of their tents illustrates how rebellion can affect entire households. Our actions and attitudes can have profound impacts on those closest to us.

God’s Justice and Mercy
While God’s judgment was severe, His instructions to the congregation to distance themselves show His mercy in providing a way of escape for those who obey.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the actions of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram about the nature of rebellion against God’s appointed leaders?

2. How does the instruction for the Israelites to distance themselves from the rebels apply to our lives today in terms of separating from sinful influences?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our families are positively influenced by our faith and obedience to God?

4. How does the account of Korah’s rebellion help us understand the importance of respecting and submitting to spiritual authority?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a choice between following God’s commands and joining in with a rebellious attitude. What did you learn from that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:24
Provides background on Korah's lineage, establishing his Levitical heritage.

Jude 1:11
References Korah's rebellion as a warning against rejecting divine authority.

Psalm 106:16-18
Reflects on the rebellion and God's judgment, emphasizing the consequences of challenging God's appointed leaders.

1 Samuel 15:23
Highlights the sin of rebellion as akin to witchcraft, underscoring the gravity of Korah's actions.

Hebrews 13:17
Encourages believers to obey their leaders, contrasting the rebellious spirit of Korah and his followers.