Numbers 26:11
Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not.
Original Language Analysis
וּבְנֵי
Notwithstanding the children
H1121
וּבְנֵי
Notwithstanding the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 4
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
קֹ֖רַח
of Korah
H7141
קֹ֖רַח
of Korah
Strong's:
H7141
Word #:
2 of 4
korach, the name of two edomites and three israelites
Historical Context
The sons of Korah appear not to have participated in their father's rebellion, explaining their survival. They became a Levitical family prominent in David's time, serving as temple singers and gatekeepers (1 Chronicles 9:19, 26:1). Eleven canonical Psalms bear their name, contributing significantly to Israel's worship. This transformation from rebel's children to worship leaders demonstrates God's redemptive power across generations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the sons of Korah's story encourage those from difficult family backgrounds?
- What does their transformation from rebels' children to worship leaders teach about redemption's power?
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Analysis & Commentary
The emphatic statement 'Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not' provides remarkable gospel preview—mercy triumphing over judgment. Though Korah himself faced destruction, his sons were spared and eventually became important temple musicians and worship leaders. This demonstrates that God's judgments are discriminating, not automatically generational. Personal faith can break cycles of family rebellion. The sons of Korah's eventual contributions to Israel's worship (authoring multiple Psalms) shows God's redemptive purposes transforming tragedy's aftermath.