Topical Encyclopedia Korah, a Levite of the Kohathite clan, is a prominent biblical figure whose account is a cautionary tale of envy and rebellion against divinely appointed leadership. His narrative is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 16. Korah's actions and the subsequent consequences serve as a profound example of the destructive nature of envy and the importance of respecting God's established order.Background and Rebellion Korah was the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi (Numbers 16:1). As a Levite, Korah held a privileged position among the Israelites, tasked with duties related to the tabernacle. Despite this honor, Korah became envious of the leadership roles held by Moses and Aaron. He questioned their authority, suggesting that the entire congregation was holy and that Moses and Aaron had overstepped their bounds: "You have gone too far! For all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?" (Numbers 16:3). Korah's rebellion was not an isolated act. He allied himself with Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab, and On, son of Peleth, from the tribe of Reuben, along with 250 well-known community leaders. This coalition challenged Moses and Aaron, seeking to usurp their God-given authority. Divine Judgment In response to Korah's rebellion, Moses proposed a test to demonstrate whom the LORD had chosen. Each man was to take his censer and present incense before the LORD. The following day, the LORD instructed Moses and Aaron to separate themselves from the assembly so that He might consume the rebels. Moses interceded, pleading with God not to destroy the entire congregation for the sin of one man (Numbers 16:20-22). God then commanded the congregation to move away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. As a sign of divine judgment, the earth opened up and swallowed them, along with their households and all their possessions. Fire also came forth from the LORD and consumed the 250 men offering incense (Numbers 16:31-35). Legacy and Lessons The rebellion of Korah is referenced in other parts of Scripture as a warning against envy and rebellion. In Jude 1:11, Korah's rebellion is cited alongside the errors of Cain and Balaam as examples of ungodly behavior. The psalmist also recalls the event, emphasizing the severity of the judgment: "The earth opened and swallowed Dathan; it covered the assembly of Abiram" (Psalm 106:17). Korah's account underscores the dangers of envy and the importance of recognizing and respecting God's chosen leaders. It serves as a reminder that rebellion against divine authority leads to dire consequences, and it highlights the need for humility and submission to God's will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Numbers 16:3And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said to them, You take too much on you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them: why then lift you up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD? Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 106:16 Library Matt. xii. 9, 10 There have Come to Me Ransomers from among the Saints, but None ... Endurance of the World's Censure. Sparrows and Altars Death Swallowed up in victory Evans -- the Fall and Recovery of Man On the Government of God Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. Epistle Lxiii. Limenius, Bishop of Vercell??, Having Died, the See ... Priest and victim Resources Why is "You shall not covet" in the Ten Commandments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean when it refers to emulations? | GotQuestions.org What are the seven deadly sins? | GotQuestions.org Envy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Envy: A Proof of Carnal-Mindedness Envy: Excited by Good Deeds of Others Envy: General Scriptures Concerning Envy: Inconsistent With the Gospel Envy: Jews, of Paul and Barnabas Envy: Joseph's Brethren, of Joseph Envy: Joshua, of Eldad and Medad Envy: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, of Moses Envy: Leads to Every Evil Work Envy: Miriam and Aaron, of Moses Envy: Produced by Foolish Disputation Envy: Prosperity of the Wicked should not Excite Envy: The Princes of Babylon, of Daniel Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) |
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