Numbers 26:10

And the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them along with Korah, whose followers died when the fire consumed 250 men. They serve as a warning sign.

Study Bible

The earth opened its mouth
This phrase vividly describes a miraculous and divine intervention. In Hebrew, the word for "earth" is "אֶרֶץ" (erets), which often signifies the physical land but also represents God's creation and His control over it. The imagery of the earth opening its mouth is a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty and judgment. It serves as a reminder that the natural world is under God's command and can be used to execute His will. This event is a stark warning against rebellion and a call to recognize God's authority.

and swallowed them
The act of swallowing indicates a complete and sudden destruction. The Hebrew root "בָּלַע" (bala) means to engulf or consume. This action signifies the finality of God's judgment against those who oppose Him. It is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion. The swallowing by the earth is not just a physical act but a spiritual lesson on the seriousness of defying God's appointed leaders and His divine order.

along with Korah
Korah, a Levite, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their God-given authority. His name in Hebrew, "קֹרַח" (Qorach), is associated with baldness or ice, symbolizing a lack of covering or protection, which is fitting given his exposure to divine judgment. Korah's rebellion is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and ambition when they lead to challenging God's established order. His fate serves as a lesson on the importance of humility and submission to God's will.

whose followers died
The followers of Korah, who joined in his rebellion, faced the same fate. This phrase underscores the collective responsibility and consequence of sin. In the Hebrew context, the word for "followers" can imply those who are led astray or deceived. It highlights the influence leaders have over their followers and the importance of discerning and following righteous leadership. The death of these followers serves as a warning about the dangers of aligning with those who oppose God's commands.

when the fire devoured the 250 men
Fire, in biblical terms, often represents God's presence and judgment. The Hebrew word "אֵשׁ" (esh) signifies both purification and destruction. The devouring fire that consumed the 250 men who offered unauthorized incense is a direct act of divine judgment. It serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him with reverence and obedience. This event illustrates the consequences of attempting to usurp the roles and responsibilities God has ordained.

They served as a warning sign
The phrase "warning sign" in Hebrew is "אוֹת" (oth), which means a sign or symbol. The fate of Korah and his followers is meant to be a perpetual reminder to the Israelites and to all believers of the dangers of rebellion against God. It is a call to remember the past and learn from it, ensuring that future generations understand the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands. This warning sign is a testament to God's justice and mercy, urging believers to walk in His ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Korah
A Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and the priesthood.

2. The Earth
Used by God as an instrument of judgment, it opened to swallow Korah and his followers.

3. 250 Men
Followers of Korah who were consumed by fire as a divine judgment for their rebellion.

4. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of Israel, appointed by God, whose authority was challenged by Korah and his followers.

5. The Rebellion
A significant event where Korah and his followers questioned God's chosen leadership, resulting in severe judgment.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rebellion
Rebellion against God's appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The dramatic judgment on Korah and his followers underscores God's sovereign authority and His ability to execute justice in His own way and timing.

The Importance of Humility and Submission
Believers are called to submit to God's established order and leadership, recognizing that God places leaders for His purposes.

Warnings as Acts of Grace
The event serves as a warning sign, an act of grace to prevent others from following the same path of destruction.

Community Accountability
The community of believers is responsible for upholding God's standards and supporting His appointed leaders, fostering unity and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Korah illustrate the consequences of challenging God's authority, and how can we apply this lesson in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the judgment on Korah and his followers serve as a warning for us today, and how can we heed this warning in our personal and communal faith journey?

3. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility and submission to God's appointed leaders in our church and community?

4. What are some modern-day examples of rebellion against divine authority, and how can we respond to them in a way that honors God?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, support and uphold God's established order and leadership, ensuring that we do not fall into the same trap as Korah and his followers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:12
This verse speaks of the earth swallowing enemies, similar to the judgment on Korah.

Psalm 106:16-18
Reflects on the rebellion of Korah and the consequences of challenging God's appointed leaders.

Jude 1:11
Warns against following the way of Korah, highlighting the danger of rebellion against divine authority.

1 Corinthians 10:10-11
Discusses the consequences of grumbling and rebellion, using Israel's history as a warning for believers.