Old Testament

Numbers 16:50

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Aaron returned to Moses at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting. The plague was over.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And Aaron returned unto Moses unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the plague was stayed.

What Numbers 16:50 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Aaron, the high priest, returns to Moses after a devastating plague has affected the people of Israel. The plague was a consequence of the people's rebellion against God, and Aaron's role as a mediator is crucial. By returning to Moses, he signifies that the crisis has ended, and God's judgment has been lifted. This moment highlights the importance of leadership and intercession in times of crisis. The Tent of Meeting, where Aaron and Moses convene, represents a sacred space where God communicates with His leaders. The phrase 'the plague was over' indicates a restoration of order and a return to normalcy for the Israelites, emphasizing God's mercy and the power of prayer and repentance. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience but also of the hope found in turning back to God for healing and restoration.

How to apply Numbers 16:50 to your life

This verse encourages us to seek reconciliation and healing in our communities. Just as Aaron interceded for the people, we can pray for others and act as peacemakers. In times of conflict or crisis, turning to God for guidance and support can lead to restoration and healing.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the ground opening during Korah's rebellion

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16:1–50)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Moses

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

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.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Numbers 16:50

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Numbers 16:50

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 16:50 mean?

Numbers 16:50 describes Aaron returning to Moses after a plague that affected the Israelites due to their rebellion against God. It signifies the end of God's judgment and highlights the importance of leadership and intercession during a crisis.

What is the significance of the Tent of Meeting in Numbers 16:50?

The Tent of Meeting is a sacred space where God communicated with Moses and Aaron. In Numbers 16:50, it represents a place of reconciliation and divine guidance, emphasizing the importance of seeking God during times of trouble.

What does the phrase 'the plague was over' indicate in Numbers 16:50?

The phrase 'the plague was over' indicates that God's judgment on the people had ended, restoring order and normalcy among the Israelites. It reflects God's mercy and the power of intercession through Aaron.

How does Numbers 16:50 relate to leadership?

Numbers 16:50 illustrates the role of leaders like Aaron in mediating between God and the people during crises. It shows that effective leadership involves seeking God's guidance and advocating for others.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.