Old Testament
Numbers 16:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Moses expresses his anger to God regarding the rebellion of Korah and his followers.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Moses was furious. He said to the LORD, "Don't accept their offering. I haven't taken so much as a single donkey from any of them, and I haven't wronged a single one of them."
And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses expresses his anger to God regarding the rebellion of Korah and his followers. He firmly states that he has not wronged anyone or taken anything from them, emphasizing his integrity as a leader. Moses is concerned that their offerings, which are made in defiance of his leadership, should not be accepted by God. This moment highlights the seriousness of the rebellion against God's appointed leader and the importance of accountability in spiritual leadership. Moses' response shows his commitment to righteousness and his role as an intermediary between the people and God. His refusal to accept any gifts from the rebels underscores his dedication to serving God faithfully without personal gain. This situation serves as a reminder of the consequences of challenging divine authority and the need for leaders to maintain their integrity in the face of opposition.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 16:15 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of integrity in leadership. As leaders, we should not seek personal gain or allow ourselves to be swayed by the opinions of others. Instead, we must remain faithful to our responsibilities and uphold our values, even in challenging situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 16:15 mean?
In Numbers 16:15, Moses expresses his anger to God about the rebellion led by Korah. He insists that he has not wronged anyone or taken anything from them, highlighting his integrity as a leader and his commitment to serving God faithfully.
What is the significance of Moses' anger in Numbers 16:15?
Moses' anger in this verse underscores the seriousness of the rebellion against his leadership. It reflects his deep concern for maintaining divine authority and accountability among the people.
What does Moses mean by 'Don't accept their offering' in Numbers 16:15?
When Moses says 'Don't accept their offering,' he is asking God to reject the gifts from Korah and his followers, as they are made in defiance of his leadership. This emphasizes the importance of sincerity and the right motives in offerings to God.
How does Numbers 16:15 relate to leadership integrity?
Numbers 16:15 illustrates the importance of integrity in leadership, as Moses firmly states he has not taken anything from the rebels. It serves as a reminder for leaders to remain faithful and uphold their values, even when faced with opposition.
The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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