Numbers 16:15

Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD, "Do not regard their offering. I have not taken one donkey from them or mistreated a single one of them."

Study Bible

Then Moses became very angry
The Hebrew word for "angry" here is "חָרָה" (charah), which conveys a deep, burning anger. This is not a casual irritation but a righteous indignation. Moses, as a leader chosen by God, is deeply disturbed by the rebellion of Korah and his followers. His anger is not self-serving but is rooted in a zeal for God's holiness and order. Historically, Moses' anger is justified as he is defending God's honor and the integrity of the leadership God has established.

and said to the LORD
Moses' immediate response to his anger is to turn to the LORD in prayer. This reflects a profound relationship with God, where Moses consistently seeks divine guidance and intervention. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) indicates a direct and personal communication with God, highlighting Moses' role as an intercessor for the people. In the scriptural context, this demonstrates the importance of bringing grievances and concerns before God rather than acting out of human emotion alone.

Do not accept their offering!
The word "accept" in Hebrew is "פָּנָה" (panah), which means to turn towards or regard. Moses is asking God to reject the rebellious offering of Korah and his followers. This plea underscores the principle that not all offerings are pleasing to God, especially those that come from a place of rebellion or insincerity. In the broader biblical narrative, this highlights the importance of the heart's posture in worship and offering to God.

I have not taken so much as a donkey from them
Moses defends his integrity by stating he has not taken even a donkey, a common and valuable possession in ancient times. The Hebrew word for "donkey" is "חֲמוֹר" (chamor), symbolizing Moses' honesty and selflessness. This assertion is significant in the historical context, as leaders often exploited their positions for personal gain. Moses' statement is a testament to his faithful stewardship and integrity as a leader.

nor have I wronged any of them
The Hebrew word for "wronged" is "רָעַע" (ra'a), meaning to harm or treat badly. Moses declares his innocence and fairness in dealing with the Israelites. This phrase emphasizes the biblical principle of justice and righteousness in leadership. Moses' leadership is characterized by fairness and a commitment to God's laws, serving as a model for godly leadership throughout the scriptures.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. In this verse, Moses is expressing his righteous anger and integrity in response to the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

2. The LORD
The God of Israel, who Moses addresses in his plea. The LORD is the ultimate judge and authority over the situation.

3. Korah, Dathan, and Abiram
Leaders of a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their God-given authority. This rebellion is the context for Moses' plea to God.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who are witnessing the events and are affected by the rebellion and its consequences.

5. The Wilderness
The setting of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, where this rebellion takes place.

Teaching Points

Righteous Anger
Moses' anger is not sinful but a response to rebellion against God's order. Believers can learn to distinguish between righteous and unrighteous anger.

Integrity in Leadership
Moses' declaration of innocence underscores the importance of integrity for leaders. Christian leaders should strive to lead with honesty and transparency.

God's Justice
Moses appeals to God's justice, reminding us that God is the ultimate judge. We can trust Him to handle injustices in His timing and way.

Intercession and Advocacy
While Moses often interceded for the people, here he advocates for justice. Believers are called to both intercede for others and stand for truth.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite opposition, Moses trusts God to vindicate him. Christians are encouraged to rely on God's sovereignty in the face of challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' response to the rebellion in Numbers 16:15 demonstrate the balance between righteous anger and intercession?

2. In what ways can Christian leaders today emulate Moses' integrity and transparency in their leadership roles?

3. How does the account of Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16 connect with the broader biblical theme of God's justice and judgment?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition or false accusations. How can Moses' example in Numbers 16:15 guide your response?

5. How does trusting in God's sovereignty, as Moses did, impact your approach to challenges and conflicts in your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
Moses' intercession for the Israelites after the golden calf incident shows his role as a mediator, contrasting with his plea for justice in Numbers 16:15.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel's declaration of his integrity before Israel parallels Moses' claim of innocence, emphasizing the importance of righteous leadership.

Psalm 106
This psalm recounts Israel's rebellions, including Korah's, highlighting the consequences of opposing God's chosen leaders.