King James Version

What Does Numbers 26:11 Mean?

Numbers 26:11 in the King James Version says “Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not. — study this verse from Numbers chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not.

Numbers 26:11 · KJV


Context

9

And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. This is that Dathan and Abiram, which were famous in the congregation, who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah, when they strove against the LORD:

10

And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up together with Korah, when that company died, what time the fire devoured two hundred and fifty men: and they became a sign.

11

Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not.

12

The sons of Simeon after their families: of Nemuel, the family of the Nemuelites: of Jamin, the family of the Jaminites: of Jachin, the family of the Jachinites:

13

Of Zerah, the family of the Zarhites: of Shaul, the family of the Shaulites.


Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the sons of Korah's story encourage those from difficult family backgrounds?
  2. What does their transformation from rebels' children to worship leaders teach about redemption's power?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וּבְנֵי1 of 4

Notwithstanding the children

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

קֹ֖רַח2 of 4

of Korah

H7141

korach, the name of two edomites and three israelites

לֹא3 of 4
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

מֵֽתוּ׃4 of 4

died

H4191

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill


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 26:11 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 26:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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