Numbers 16:20
And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 7
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
God's pattern in Numbers is to speak to Moses, who mediates to the people (Deuteronomy 18:15-18 foreshadows the ultimate Prophet). Here He addresses both Moses and Aaron, highlighting that the rebellion attacked the dual offices: prophetic leadership and priestly mediation. Both offices find fulfillment in Christ (Hebrews 3:1).
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's speaking 'unto Moses and unto Aaron' teach about recognizing multiple legitimate authorities rather than demanding singular human leadership?
- How should the church respond when God's Word clearly addresses a controversy, yet popular opinion resists it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying—This terse introduction precedes God's shocking command in v. 21. The divine speech is directed to both Moses and Aaron, affirming their joint leadership despite the rebellion specifically targeting their roles (Moses as political leader, Aaron as high priest). The verb dabar (דָּבַר, spoke) indicates direct, authoritative communication—not inference or interpretation.
That God speaks now, when His glory has appeared and 250 men stand with illicit censers, shows His patience is exhausted. The congregation has been warned through the wilderness (ch. 11, 14) but repeatedly chooses rebellion. This verse's brevity creates dramatic tension: what will the Holy One say?