Numbers 16:37

"Tell Eleazar son of Aaron the priest to remove the censers from the flames and to scatter the coals far away, because the censers are holy.

Study Bible

Tell Eleazar son of Aaron the priest
This phrase identifies Eleazar, the son of Aaron, as the one chosen for a specific task. Eleazar, whose name means "God has helped" in Hebrew, was a significant figure in the priestly lineage. As the son of Aaron, the first high priest, Eleazar's role underscores the continuity and sanctity of the priesthood. This highlights the importance of maintaining divine order and obedience within the priestly duties, as Eleazar is entrusted with a sacred task following a divine judgment.

to remove the censers from the flames
The censers, or firepans, were used by Korah and his followers in their rebellion against Moses and Aaron. The Hebrew word for censer, "machtah," refers to a vessel for burning incense. Despite the rebellion, the censers themselves were considered holy because they were offered before the LORD. This act of removing them from the flames signifies a separation of the holy from the profane, a recurring theme in the Old Testament where God distinguishes between what is consecrated and what is defiled.

for they are holy
The declaration that the censers are holy, despite their use in rebellion, speaks to the concept of holiness in the Hebrew Bible. The Hebrew word "qadosh" means set apart or sacred. This indicates that objects dedicated to God retain their sanctity, regardless of the intentions of those who misuse them. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the enduring nature of His holiness, which cannot be tainted by human sin.

and scatter the coals far away
The instruction to scatter the coals far away is a symbolic act of purging and cleansing. In the ancient Near Eastern context, fire often represented judgment and purification. By scattering the coals, Eleazar is performing a ritual act that removes the remnants of rebellion and restores purity to the camp. This action reflects the broader biblical principle of removing sin and its consequences from the community, ensuring that the people remain in right standing with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eleazar
The son of Aaron, the high priest. Eleazar is tasked with removing the censers from the flames, signifying his role in maintaining the sanctity of the priesthood and the tabernacle.

2. Aaron
The high priest and brother of Moses. Aaron's lineage is affirmed through this event, as his son Eleazar is given a priestly duty.

3. The Censers
These are the bronze firepans used by Korah and his followers in their rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Despite their misuse, they are considered holy because they were offered before the LORD.

4. The Flames
The fire that consumed Korah and his followers as a divine judgment for their rebellion. The flames serve as a reminder of God's holiness and justice.

5. The Rebellion of Korah
A significant event where Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and their followers challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron, resulting in their destruction by divine intervention.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
God's holiness demands reverence and obedience. The censers, though used in rebellion, were still considered holy because they were offered before the LORD. This teaches us to approach God with the utmost respect and adherence to His commands.

The Role of Leadership
God appoints leaders for His purposes. The affirmation of Aaron's priesthood through Eleazar's actions reminds us to respect and support God-ordained leadership within the church.

The Consequences of Rebellion
Rebellion against God's appointed leaders and His commands leads to severe consequences. This serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient to God's Word.

Redemption and Restoration
Even in judgment, there is a path to redemption. The censers, once used in rebellion, are repurposed for holy use, symbolizing God's ability to restore and redeem.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Eleazar in this passage reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways does the holiness of the censers, despite their misuse, challenge us to view our own acts of worship?

3. How can the account of Korah's rebellion serve as a warning against disobedience and pride in our own lives?

4. What parallels can you draw between the judgment seen in Numbers 16 and other biblical accounts of divine justice?

5. How can we apply the principle of redemption and restoration, as seen in the repurposing of the censers, to our personal spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10
The death of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, for offering unauthorized fire before the LORD. This event parallels the judgment on Korah's followers and underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and obedience.

Hebrews 12
The New Testament speaks of God as a consuming fire, emphasizing His holiness and the need for reverence, much like the judgment seen in Numbers 16.

1 Samuel 15
The account of Saul's disobedience highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, similar to the rebellion of Korah where improper worship led to judgment.