Numbers 16:12

ยถ And Moses sent to call Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab: which said, We will not come up:

And Moses {H4872} sent {H7971} to call {H7121} Dathan {H1885} and Abiram {H48}, the sons {H1121} of Eliab {H446}: which said {H559}, We will not come up {H5927}:

Then Moshe sent to summon Datan and Aviram, the sons of Eli'av. But they replied, "We won't come up!

Then Moses summoned Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, but they said, โ€œWe will not come!

And Moses sent to call Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab; and they said, We will not come up:

Commentary

Numbers 16:12 records a pivotal moment of open defiance during the Israelite wilderness journey. Moses, attempting to resolve the escalating rebellion, sends for Dathan and Abiram, two key figures in the uprising, only to be met with a stark and insolent refusal: "We will not come up." This verse highlights their hardened hearts and direct challenge to God's ordained leadership.

Context of Rebellion

This verse is part of the dramatic narrative of Korah's rebellion, detailed in Numbers chapter 16. Korah, a Levite, along with Dathan and Abiram from the tribe of Reuben, and 250 prominent Israelite leaders, mounted a significant challenge against the authority of Moses and Aaron. Their grievance, articulated in Numbers 16:3, was that Moses and Aaron had "lifted up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD," implying that all the congregation was holy and equally entitled to leadership. Moses' summons to Dathan and Abiram in verse 12 was an attempt to confront them directly and perhaps offer a chance for reconciliation or explanation, but their outright refusal signaled their unwavering commitment to their mutiny.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Open Defiance and Rebellion: Dathan and Abiram's blunt refusal to appear before Moses is a clear act of insubordination, not just against Moses but implicitly against the God who appointed him. It demonstrates a deep-seated contempt for established authority.
  • Rejection of Divine Authority: By rejecting Moses' call, they were, in essence, rejecting God's chosen representative. This act foreshadows the severe judgment that would follow, emphasizing the gravity of opposing God's established order.
  • Pride and Arrogance: The rebellion was fueled by pride and a desire for power, as these men sought to elevate themselves and usurp the roles God had assigned. Their refusal to "come up" suggests an unwillingness to humble themselves or submit to any accountability.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew phrase "We will not come up" (ืœึนื ื ึทืขึฒืœึถื”, lo na'aleh) is a strong and unambiguous declaration. The verb "come up" can refer to ascending to a higher place, but here it more broadly signifies coming into the presence of someone in authority, often implying submission or respect. Their use of "not" (lo) followed by the future tense verb indicates a firm, resolved refusal, leaving no room for negotiation or reconsideration. It underscores their complete and utter rejection of Moses' summons and, by extension, his authority.

Practical Application

The account of Dathan and Abiram serves as a powerful cautionary tale for all generations. It reminds us of:

  • The Dangers of Rebellion: Challenging legitimate authority, especially that which is divinely appointed, carries severe consequences. This applies to spiritual authority within the church and civil authority, where it does not conflict with God's law.
  • Humility and Submission: The narrative underscores the importance of humility and a willingness to submit to those in leadership. True leadership, as exemplified by Christ, involves service, not self-exaltation.
  • Trusting God's Providence: God establishes authorities for a reason, and while leaders are fallible, our ultimate trust must be in God's plan and His chosen instruments. Romans 13:1 speaks to the divine institution of governing authorities.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 2:13

    ยถ Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;

  • 1 Peter 2:14

    Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

  • Proverbs 29:9

    ยถ [If] a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he rage or laugh, [there is] no rest.

  • Jude 1:8

    ยถ Likewise also these [filthy] dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.

  • Isaiah 3:5

    And the people shall be oppressed, every one by another, and every one by his neighbour: the child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable.
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