Numbers 16:5
And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him: even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Korah's rebellion (Numbers 16) occurred during Israel's wilderness wandering, approximately one year after the golden calf incident and the establishment of the Levitical priesthood. Korah was himself a Levite from the Kohathite clan, responsible for carrying the most sacred tabernacle objects (Numbers 4:15). However, only Aaron's descendants could serve as priests who offered sacrifices and entered the Holy Place.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, priestly offices often carried significant power, prestige, and material benefits. Korah's complaint that "all the congregation are holy" (16:3) may have resonated with democratic impulses, but it fundamentally misunderstood the nature of Israel's theocracy. The rebellion included 250 leaders, suggesting widespread discontent with the established hierarchy. Archaeological evidence from ancient Israel shows that priestly families maintained distinct social and economic positions.
The severity of God's judgment—the earth swallowing the rebels and fire consuming the 250 leaders—served as a perpetual warning (Numbers 26:10). Bronze censers from the rebels were hammered into a covering for the altar as a memorial (Numbers 16:38-40), likely a physical reminder that persisted for generations. This event established definitively that approaching God required proper authorization, foreshadowing Christ's unique qualification as our mediator.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage challenge our modern assumptions about equality and authority in spiritual matters?
- In what ways might we be tempted, like Korah, to seek spiritual positions or recognition that God has not granted us?
- What does Moses' restraint in letting God vindicate him teach us about responding to criticism or challenges to our calling?
- How does understanding Christ as our chosen High Priest deepen our appreciation for His unique qualification to approach God on our behalf?
- What warnings does this passage provide about the danger of organizing opposition against God-ordained leadership in the church?
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Analysis & Commentary
And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him: even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him. This verse stands at the heart of one of Scripture's most sobering rebellions against divinely appointed authority. Moses' response to Korah's challenge demonstrates profound spiritual wisdom and restraint. Rather than asserting his own authority, Moses appeals to God's sovereignty in choosing His servants.
The Hebrew phrase bakar (בָּחַר, "chosen") emphasizes divine election—God alone determines who may approach Him in priestly service. Moses understands that the priesthood is not a democratic position to be seized by popular demand, but a sacred office granted by divine appointment. The phrase "to morrow the LORD will shew" (vayashkem Yahweh yoda) reveals Moses' confidence that God Himself will vindicate His choice, removing the burden of self-defense from Moses' shoulders.
Theologically, this passage establishes crucial principles:
The New Testament echoes this when it warns against taking the office of teacher lightly (James 3:1) and emphasizes that Christ was appointed by God as High Priest (Hebrews 5:4-6).