King James Version
What Does Numbers 16:20 Mean?
“And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,”
Numbers 16:20 · KJV
Context
18
And they took every man his censer, and put fire in them, and laid incense thereon, and stood in the door of the tabernacle of the congregation with Moses and Aaron.
19
And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.
20
And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,
21
Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them in a moment.
22
And they fell upon their faces, and said, O God, the God of the spirits of all flesh, shall one man sin, and wilt thou be wroth with all the congregation?
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd 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?
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?
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural 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).
Reflection Questions
- 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?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 7 wordsוַיְדַבֵּ֣ר1 of 7
“spake”
H1696perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֔ה2 of 7
“And the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 16:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.