Introduction:
Dathan and Abiram are notable figures in the Old Testament, primarily recognized for their rebellion against Moses and Aaron during the Israelites' wilderness journey. Their account is a significant example of defiance against divinely appointed leadership and the consequences of such actions.

Biblical Account:
Dathan and Abiram were sons of Eliab, from the tribe of Reuben. Their narrative is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 16. They, along with Korah, a Levite, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and questioning their authority over the congregation of Israel.

Rebellion Against Moses and Aaron:
The rebellion of Dathan and Abiram is closely associated with Korah's insurrection. They accused Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves above the assembly of the Lord. Numbers 16:3 records their challenge: "You have gone too far, for all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?"

Dathan and Abiram's defiance was not merely against Moses and Aaron but was seen as a direct challenge to God's established order. They refused to come when summoned by Moses, expressing their dissatisfaction with the leadership and the conditions in the wilderness, as seen in Numbers 16:12-14.

Divine Judgment:
The rebellion led by Dathan, Abiram, and Korah resulted in severe divine judgment. Moses, under God's direction, proposed a test to demonstrate whom God had chosen. The earth opened up and swallowed Dathan, Abiram, their families, and all their possessions, as described in Numbers 16:31-33 : "As soon as Moses had finished saying all this, the ground beneath them split open, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households, all Korah’s men and all their possessions."

This dramatic event served as a powerful warning to the Israelites about the seriousness of rebellion against God's appointed leaders.

Legacy and Lessons:
The account of Dathan and Abiram is often cited as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, rebellion, and disobedience to God's established authority. Their actions and the subsequent judgment underscore the importance of humility and submission to God's will.

In the New Testament, Jude 1:11 references the rebellion of Korah, which includes the actions of Dathan and Abiram, as a warning against false teachers and those who reject authority.

Conclusion:
The account of Dathan and Abiram serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of challenging God's order and the importance of respecting divinely appointed leadership. Their account is a testament to the seriousness with which God views rebellion and the need for faithfulness and obedience among His people.