Old Testament
Numbers 16:46
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 instructs Aaron to take a censer, which is a container used for burning incense, and to fill it with fire from the altar.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Moses said to Aaron, "Grab your censer! Put fire from the altar in it and add incense. Then run to the community and make atonement for them — the LORD's anger has broken out, and the plague has already started!"
And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the altar, and put on incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses instructs Aaron to take a censer, which is a container used for burning incense, and to fill it with fire from the altar. He tells Aaron to add incense and quickly go among the people to make atonement for them. This is urgent because the Lord's anger has been kindled against the Israelites, resulting in a plague that has already begun. The act of making atonement is a way to seek forgiveness and stop the consequences of their wrongdoing. This moment highlights the seriousness of sin and the need for intercession. Aaron's role as a priest is crucial here, as he acts on behalf of the people to restore their relationship with God. The urgency of the situation emphasizes the importance of responding quickly to God's call for repentance and the need for leaders to act decisively in times of crisis.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 16:46 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of interceding for others, especially in times of crisis. We should be quick to seek forgiveness and help others find reconciliation with God. It reminds us that our actions can have significant impacts on those around us, and we must act responsibly.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Moses instruct Aaron to do in Numbers 16:46?
In Numbers 16:46, Moses instructs Aaron to take a censer, fill it with fire from the altar, add incense, and quickly go among the people to make atonement for them. This urgent action is necessary because the Lord's anger has been kindled against the Israelites, resulting in a plague that has already started.
Why is atonement important in Numbers 16:46?
Atonement is crucial in Numbers 16:46 because it represents a way to seek forgiveness from God and to stop the consequences of sin. The Israelites were facing a plague due to divine anger, and Aaron's act of intercession was essential for restoring their relationship with God and averting further disaster.
What does the censer symbolize in this verse?
The censer in Numbers 16:46 symbolizes the act of prayer and intercession. It is a tool used to burn incense, which represents the prayers of the people rising to God. Aaron's use of the censer signifies his role as a mediator between God and the Israelites, highlighting the importance of seeking divine mercy.
How does this verse relate to leadership?
This verse emphasizes the responsibility of leaders to act decisively in times of crisis. Moses' command to Aaron illustrates the need for leaders to intercede on behalf of their people, demonstrating that effective leadership involves taking swift action to address spiritual and communal needs, especially when facing divine judgment.
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.
Unlock the full Numbers summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Numbers — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 36 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Numbers summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.