Old Testament
Numbers 16:27
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So the people moved away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram on every side. Dathan and Abiram came out and stood at the entrances of their tents with their wives, their sons, and their small children.
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So they gat up from the tabernacle of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, on every side: and Dathan and Abiram came out, and stood in the door of their tents, and their wives, and their sons, and their little children.
What Numbers 16:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people of Israel are instructed to distance themselves from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, who had rebelled against Moses and Aaron. Dathan and Abiram defiantly emerge from their tents, accompanied by their families, to confront the situation. This moment highlights their unwillingness to repent and the seriousness of their rebellion against God's chosen leaders. The presence of their wives, sons, and small children emphasizes that the consequences of their actions extend beyond themselves, affecting their entire families. The gathering of the people around them signifies a pivotal moment in the narrative, as it sets the stage for the divine judgment that is about to unfold. This scene serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God and the dangers of leading others into rebellion.
How to apply Numbers 16:27 to your life
This passage teaches us the importance of standing firm in our faith and the consequences of rebellion against God’s authority. It reminds us to lead our families in obedience to God and to be aware of how our actions can influence those around us.
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 16:27 mean?
Numbers 16:27 describes the moment when the people of Israel are told to move away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, who had rebelled against Moses. Dathan and Abiram come out with their families, showing their defiance and unwillingness to repent, which highlights the seriousness of their rebellion against God's chosen leaders.
What is the significance of Dathan and Abiram in Numbers 16:27?
Dathan and Abiram represent rebellion against God's authority. Their emergence with their families emphasizes the impact of their actions, indicating that their rebellion not only affects them but also their wives and children.
What does the phrase 'little children' in Numbers 16:27 imply?
The phrase 'little children' in Numbers 16:27 implies that the consequences of Dathan and Abiram's rebellion extend to their entire families, highlighting the broader impact of one's actions on loved ones.
How does Numbers 16:27 relate to leadership and obedience?
Numbers 16:27 emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's chosen leaders and the dangers of rebellion. It serves as a reminder that leadership comes with responsibility and that disobedience can have serious consequences for individuals and their families.
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