Numbers 16:46

Moses said to Aaron, "Take your censer, place fire from the altar in it, and add incense. Go quickly to the congregation and make atonement for them, because wrath has come out from the LORD; the plague has begun."

Study Bible

So Moses said to Aaron
This phrase highlights the leadership and intercessory role of Moses. In the Hebrew context, Moses is often seen as a mediator between God and the Israelites. His directive to Aaron underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation. Moses, as a prophet and leader, is acting swiftly to prevent further disaster, demonstrating his deep concern for the people and his understanding of God's holiness and justice.

Take the censer
The censer, a vessel used for burning incense, is significant in the Hebrew tradition as a symbol of prayer and intercession. In the tabernacle, incense represented the prayers of the people rising to God. Here, the censer becomes a tool for atonement, indicating the need for a tangible act of intercession to appease God's wrath.

place fire from the altar in it
The altar fire is sacred, having been kindled by God Himself (Leviticus 9:24). Using this holy fire signifies the need for divine intervention. The altar represents God's presence and His covenant with Israel. By using fire from the altar, Aaron is invoking God's holiness and mercy, seeking to restore the broken relationship between God and His people.

add incense
Incense, in biblical times, was a fragrant offering pleasing to God. It symbolizes the prayers and supplications of the people. The addition of incense to the censer signifies the act of intercession, a plea for mercy. In the broader scriptural context, incense is often associated with the prayers of the saints (Revelation 5:8), highlighting the importance of prayer in seeking God's favor.

and go quickly to the congregation
The urgency in Aaron's actions reflects the immediate threat posed by the plague. The Hebrew word for "quickly" emphasizes the need for prompt action in the face of divine judgment. This urgency underscores the seriousness of sin and the swiftness of God's response, as well as the necessity for immediate repentance and intercession.

to make atonement for them
Atonement is a central theme in the Old Testament, involving reconciliation between God and humanity. The Hebrew root "kaphar" means to cover or to make amends. Aaron's role as high priest is to mediate and restore the relationship between the Israelites and God. This act prefigures the ultimate atonement made by Christ, who reconciles humanity to God through His sacrifice.

For wrath has come out from the LORD
This phrase acknowledges God's righteous anger against sin. In the Hebrew understanding, God's wrath is a response to covenant unfaithfulness. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and justice. The wrath of God is not arbitrary but is a consequence of the people's rebellion and disobedience.

the plague has begun
The plague is a manifestation of God's judgment. In the historical context, plagues were often seen as divine retribution. This particular plague serves as a warning to the Israelites of the consequences of their rebellion. It also highlights the need for a mediator to stand between the people and God's righteous judgment, pointing to the necessity of atonement and intercession.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses acts as an intercessor for the people.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the high priest of Israel. He is instructed by Moses to perform a priestly duty to stop the plague.

3. The Assembly
Refers to the congregation of Israelites who were affected by the plague due to their rebellion against Moses and Aaron.

4. The Plague
A divine punishment sent by God as a result of the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron.

5. The Altar
The place where sacrifices were made to God. The fire from the altar signifies the presence and holiness of God.

Teaching Points

The Role of Intercession
Moses and Aaron demonstrate the power and necessity of intercession. Believers are called to intercede for others, standing in the gap through prayer and action.

The Seriousness of Sin
The plague represents the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin.

The Importance of Obedience
Aaron's obedience to Moses' instructions highlights the importance of following God's commands precisely. Obedience is a key aspect of faithfulness.

God's Mercy and Justice
While God is just in His punishment, He also provides a means of atonement. This balance of justice and mercy is central to understanding God's character.

The Symbolism of the Altar and Incense
The altar and incense symbolize prayer and the presence of God. Believers are encouraged to maintain a life of prayer, seeking God's presence continually.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Moses and Aaron as intercessors in Numbers 16:46 inspire you to intercede for others in your life?

2. In what ways does the event of the plague in Numbers 16 highlight the seriousness of sin and its consequences?

3. How can Aaron's obedience to Moses' instructions serve as a model for our own obedience to God's commands?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's mercy in the midst of His justice. How did that experience shape your understanding of His character?

5. How can the symbolism of the altar and incense in this passage enhance your personal prayer life and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10
This chapter describes the importance of following God's instructions precisely, as seen in the deaths of Nadab and Abihu for offering unauthorized fire. This highlights the seriousness of Aaron's task in Numbers 16:46.

Hebrews 7
Discusses Jesus as our high priest, drawing a parallel to Aaron's role in making atonement for the people, but emphasizing the superiority of Christ's eternal priesthood.

Psalm 106
Reflects on the rebellious nature of the Israelites and God's mercy, providing a broader context for understanding the events in Numbers 16.