Numbers 16:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 16:46
46 And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun.
Chapter Context
Numbers 16 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, holiness. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 16:46
46 And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun.
Analysis
As plague begins killing the congregation, Moses tells Aaron 'Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them.' The very priestly ministry Korah's rebellion challenged now provides salvation from God's wrath. Aaron's intercession between living and dead demonstrates the mediator's essential role.
Historical Context
Aaron's action prefigures Christ's intercessory work, standing between holy God and sinful humanity. The incense represents prayer (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8), and Aaron's priesthood typifies Christ's eternal high priesthood (Hebrews 7:23-25).
Reflection
- How does Aaron's standing between dead and living picture Christ's mediatorial work?
- What does priestly intercession halting plague teach about the power of prayer?
Word Studies
- Altar: מִזְבֵּחַ (Mizbeach) H4196 - Altar, place of sacrifice
Cross-References
- Judgment: Numbers 11:33, 18:5, Leviticus 10:6, 1 Chronicles 27:24
- Sacrifice: Psalms 141:2
- Parallel theme: Numbers 8:19, Psalms 106:29