King James Version
What Does Numbers 16:6 Mean?
“This do; Take you censers, Korah, and all his company;”
Numbers 16:6 · KJV
Context
4
And when Moses heard it, he fell upon his face:
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.
6
This do; Take you censers, Korah, and all his company;
7
And put fire therein, and put incense in them before the LORD to morrow: and it shall be that the man whom the LORD doth choose, he shall be holy: ye take too much upon you, ye sons of Levi.
8
And Moses said unto Korah, Hear, I pray you, ye sons of Levi:
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryMoses told Korah and his followers to prepare censers for the next day—essentially accepting their challenge but shifting judgment to God. This test would reveal whom God had chosen. Moses' confidence came not from political maneuvering but from certainty about God's will. When authority rests on divine appointment rather than human achievement, God Himself will vindicate it.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The censer test recalled Nadab and Abihu's presumptuous offering that resulted in their deaths (Leviticus 10:1-2). Korah and his followers should have learned from that precedent that approaching God contrary to His commands brought judgment. Their willingness to proceed revealed dangerous presumption.
Reflection Questions
- How do you test whether positions or opportunities come from God or from human ambition?
- What biblical precedents warn against the particular temptations you face?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsלָכֶ֣ם4 of 8
H0וְכָל7 of 8
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עֲדָתֽוֹ׃8 of 8
“and all his company”
H5712a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
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 16:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 16:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge