Old Testament
Numbers 16:25
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Moses got up and went to Dathan and Abiram, and the elders of Israel followed him.
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And Moses rose up and went unto Dathan and Abiram; and the elders of Israel followed him.
What Numbers 16:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses takes decisive action by going to confront Dathan and Abiram, who were leading a rebellion against his authority. This moment highlights Moses' leadership and commitment to addressing the issues within the Israelite community. The elders of Israel accompany him, indicating that they support his authority and are concerned about the unrest. This scene sets the stage for a significant confrontation that will reveal the consequences of rebellion against God's chosen leader. It emphasizes the importance of unity and the dangers of dissent within a community. Moses' willingness to confront the situation directly shows his dedication to maintaining order and following God's guidance, even in the face of opposition. This act of leadership is crucial for the Israelites as they navigate their journey in the wilderness, reminding them of the need for obedience and respect for God's appointed leaders.
How to apply Numbers 16:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to confront issues directly rather than avoiding them. It reminds us of the importance of supporting our leaders and maintaining unity within our communities. When faced with conflict, we should seek resolution through open dialogue and respect for authority.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16:1–50)
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Moses

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 16:25 mean?
Numbers 16:25 describes Moses taking action to confront Dathan and Abiram, who were challenging his leadership. This moment illustrates Moses' role as a leader who addresses conflict directly and emphasizes the importance of unity among the Israelites.
What themes are present in Numbers 16:25?
The themes in Numbers 16:25 include leadership, rebellion, unity, authority, and divine guidance. This verse highlights the challenges leaders face and the necessity of supporting them for the well-being of the community.
What can we learn from Numbers 16:25 about leadership?
From Numbers 16:25, we learn that effective leadership involves addressing conflicts directly and seeking resolution. It also underscores the importance of having the support of others in maintaining unity and order.
How does Numbers 16:25 relate to community dynamics?
Numbers 16:25 illustrates the dynamics of community by showing how dissent can arise and the need for strong leadership to address it. It emphasizes the role of leaders in guiding their communities and the importance of collective support.
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