Numbers 26:9

KJV

And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. This [is that] Dathan and Abiram, [which were] famous in the congregation, who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah, when they strove against the LORD:

KJV (with Strong's)

And the sons {H1121} of Eliab {H446}; Nemuel {H5241}, and Dathan {H1885}, and Abiram {H48}. This is that Dathan {H1885} and Abiram {H48}, which were famous {H7148}{H7121} in the congregation {H5712}, who strove {H5327} against Moses {H4872} and against Aaron {H175} in the company {H5712} of Korah {H7141}, when they strove {H5327} against the LORD {H3068}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and the sons of Eli'av: N'mu'el, Datan and Aviram. These are the same Datan and Aviram, men of reputation in the community, who rebelled against Moshe and Aharon in Korach's group, when they rebelled against ADONAI;

Berean Standard Bible

and the sons of Eliab were Nemuel, Dathan, and Abiram. It was Dathan and Abiram, chosen by the congregation, who fought against Moses and Aaron with the followers of Korah who rebelled against the LORD.

American Standard Version

And the sons of Eliab: Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. These are that Dathan and Abiram, who were called of the congregation, who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah, when they strove against Jehovah,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 26:9 serves as a concise, yet profound, parenthetical interjection within the second census of Israel, specifically recalling the infamous rebellion led by Dathan and Abiram. This verse highlights their notoriety within the congregation, not for commendable deeds, but for their direct and audacious opposition to God's divinely appointed leaders, Moses and Aaron. Crucially, the text elevates their human conflict, explicitly equating their striving against Moses and Aaron with a direct act of rebellion "against the LORD," thereby underscoring the severe theological implications and the ultimate divine judgment that followed.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 26:9 is strategically placed within the second census of the Israelite tribes, taken on the plains of Moab before their entry into the Promised Land. This census, detailed from [Numbers 26:1](/numbers/26-1 "Numbers 26 - The Second Census") onwards, serves to count the new generation, as the vast majority of the first generation had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience and unbelief. The mention of Dathan and Abiram, along with Korah, is a stark and deliberate interruption of the genealogical and demographic record. It functions as a solemn reminder of the catastrophic consequences of rebellion against divine authority, providing a historical anchor and a theological warning embedded within a seemingly administrative list, ensuring that this pivotal event is not forgotten by the generation poised to inherit the land.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, detailed extensively in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion"), occurred during the wilderness wanderings, a period marked by Israel's repeated grumbling and defiance against God and His chosen leaders, Moses and Aaron. Culturally, leadership in ancient Israel was divinely sanctioned, with Moses holding a unique prophetic and judicial role, and Aaron serving as the high priest. Challenges to this authority were not merely political insubordination but acts of sacrilege, directly impinging upon God's established order. The "congregation" (`edah`) refers to the entire assembly of Israel, emphasizing the public nature of the rebellion and its widespread impact. The memory of such a public and divinely judged event would have been a powerful deterrent, shaping the collective consciousness and reinforcing the sanctity of God's appointed leadership.
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 26:9 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Divine Authority and Human Rebellion**, illustrating that opposition to God's chosen representatives is tantamount to opposing God Himself. This is a recurring motif, from the initial grumbling at [the waters of Marah](/exodus/15-23 "Exodus 15:23 - The Waters of Marah") to the refusal to enter the land at [Kadesh-Barnea](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - Israel's Rebellion at Kadesh-Barnea"). Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment and Consequence**, serving as a grim reminder of God's unwavering justice against those who defy His will. The fate of Dathan and Abiram, swallowed by the earth, is a vivid example of God's swift and decisive action, ensuring that His covenant people understand the seriousness of their obedience. Finally, it subtly reinforces the theme of **God's Faithfulness in Preserving His Covenant**, even amidst widespread rebellion and loss, as a new generation is counted and prepared to enter the Promised Land, having learned from the failures of their predecessors.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strove (Hebrew, _nâtsâh'_):** A primitive root (H5327) meaning "to quarrel" or "to strive (together)." It implies a deliberate, aggressive, and often public challenge or opposition. When applied to "Moses and Aaron" and then intensified to "the LORD," it signifies not a mere disagreement but a profound act of rebellion, a direct contestation of authority that crosses the line from human conflict into divine affront, carrying implications of desolation or laying waste.
* **Famous (Hebrew, _qârîyʼ'_):** Derived from the root H7121 (_qârâʼ_), meaning "to call out to" or "to proclaim," H7148 (_qârîyʼ_) specifically means "called, i.e., select" or "renowned." In this context, it carries a strong ironic connotation. Dathan and Abiram were "called out" or "named" not for honor or virtue, but for their notorious rebellion and the catastrophic divine judgment it incurred. Their "fame" was therefore infamy, making them a byword for defiance and destruction within the congregation.
* **Congregation (Hebrew, _ʻêdâh'_):** This feminine noun (H5712) refers to a "stated assemblage," specifically the entire assembled community of Israel. It often emphasizes its religious and covenantal identity, denoting a formal, divinely constituted body. Dathan and Abiram's actions were not private grievances but public challenges within the very heart of this covenant community. Their rebellion was therefore a disruption of the divinely ordered social and spiritual fabric of Israel, making their "fame" within this _ʻêdâh_ particularly significant as a warning to all its members.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram."**: This initial clause identifies the specific individuals involved in the rebellion, linking them genealogically to Eliab. The mention of Nemuel, who was not directly involved in the rebellion's leadership but was Dathan and Abiram's brother, subtly underscores the familial connection and perhaps the broader impact of their actions on their lineage, though their family was spared the immediate judgment (cf. [Numbers 26:11](/numbers/26-11 "Numbers 26:11 - Sons of Korah Did Not Die")).
* **"This [is that] Dathan and Abiram, [which were] famous in the congregation,"**: This parenthetical statement serves to emphatically identify these two individuals, ensuring the reader understands their notorious reputation. The phrase "famous in the congregation" highlights their public standing and the widespread awareness of their rebellion, emphasizing that their infamy was well-established within the community of Israel.
* **"who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah,"**: This clause specifies the nature and context of their rebellion. It clarifies that their contention was directed against the divinely appointed civil leader (Moses) and the high priest (Aaron), and that they acted in concert with Korah, who led a separate but related rebellion among the Levites. This tripartite opposition (Dathan and Abiram challenging civil authority, Korah challenging priestly authority) represented a comprehensive assault on God's established order.
* **"when they strove against the LORD:"**: This final, climactic clause provides the ultimate theological interpretation of their actions. It unequivocally states that their rebellion against Moses and Aaron was not merely a human dispute but a direct affront to God Himself. By challenging God's chosen representatives, they were, in essence, challenging God's authority, sovereignty, and wisdom, making their sin an act of high treason against the divine King of Israel.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 26:9 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message. The verse itself functions as a **Parenthetical Note** or **Digression**, interrupting the otherwise systematic census list to insert a crucial historical and theological reminder. This interruption highlights the significance of the event, ensuring it stands out. **Irony** is powerfully present in the phrase "famous in the congregation"; Dathan and Abiram were "famous" not for virtue or service, but for their notorious rebellion and subsequent divine judgment, turning a word typically associated with honor into one of infamy. The repetition of "strove against" (`nâtsâh`) creates a sense of **Emphasis** and **Climax**, first directed at human leaders ("Moses and Aaron") and then escalating to the ultimate target ("the LORD"), demonstrating that challenging God's appointed authority is a direct challenge to God Himself. This escalation also functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where the human leaders stand in for the divine authority they represent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 26:9 serves as a theological anchor, reinforcing the critical principle that rebellion against God's appointed authority is rebellion against God Himself. This truth is foundational to understanding divine governance and the sanctity of leadership within the covenant community. The verse underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His commitment to upholding the order He establishes, whether through civil or religious leaders. The swift and devastating judgment upon Dathan and Abiram serves as a perpetual warning, demonstrating that God takes defiance seriously and will not tolerate challenges to His divine prerogative. This account highlights the dangers of spiritual pride, presumption, and the desire to usurp roles not divinely granted, urging humility and submission to God's revealed will.

* [Numbers 16:30](/numbers/16-30 "Numbers 16:30 - The Earth Swallows the Rebels")
* [Deuteronomy 11:6](/deuteronomy/11-6 "Deuteronomy 11:6 - The Fate of Dathan and Abiram")
* [Jude 1:11](/jude/1-11 "Jude 1:11 - The Way of Cain, Balaam, and Korah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The enduring relevance of Numbers 26:9 for believers today lies in its timeless warning against the perils of rebellion and the profound importance of respecting God-given authority. While we live under a new covenant, the principle remains: God establishes order, and challenging legitimate, God-ordained leadership without just cause is a serious matter with spiritual ramifications. This does not imply blind obedience to all human authority, but rather a discerning submission rooted in the understanding that all authority ultimately derives from God. The story of Dathan and Abiram cautions us against spiritual pride, the temptation to elevate our own wisdom or desires above divine instruction, and the desire for power or recognition not granted by God. It calls us to cultivate a spirit of humility, prayerful discernment, and a willingness to submit to the structures and leaders God has placed in our lives, recognizing that true freedom and blessing are found in alignment with His will and order. We are to learn from the failures of those who came before us, understanding that God's character and principles of justice are unchanging, and that obedience is always the path to life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to subtly or overtly challenge authority, whether in the church, at home, or in society, forgetting that all authority is ultimately from God?**
* **How does the "fame" of Dathan and Abiram for rebellion serve as a cautionary tale against seeking recognition or influence through ungodly means?**
* **What specific steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of humility and submission to God's will, even when it conflicts with my own desires or understanding?**

### FAQ

**Why is Numbers 26:9 included in a census list?**

Answer: Numbers 26:9 is included as a parenthetical historical note within the second census to serve as a powerful and enduring warning to the new generation of Israelites. The census is counting those who will enter the Promised Land, and the inclusion of Dathan and Abiram's fate reminds them of the severe consequences of rebellion against God's appointed leadership. It underscores that God's judgment is real and that the previous generation's failures, particularly this infamous rebellion detailed in [Numbers 16](/numbers/16 "Numbers 16 - Korah's Rebellion"), led to their demise in the wilderness. It validates Moses and Aaron's authority and reinforces the sanctity of God's established order as the new generation prepares for their inheritance.

**What was the nature of Dathan and Abiram's rebellion against Moses and Aaron?**

Answer: Dathan and Abiram, along with Korah, led a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron. While Korah, a Levite, challenged Aaron's priestly authority, Dathan and Abiram, from the tribe of Reuben, challenged Moses's civil and political leadership. They accused Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves above the "congregation of the LORD" and questioned their exclusive authority, desiring a share in leadership for themselves (cf. [Numbers 16:3](/numbers/16-3 "Numbers 16:3 - Korah's Accusation")). Their rebellion was rooted in pride, envy, and a rejection of God's chosen leadership, which the text explicitly states was a direct "striving against the LORD."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 26:9, with its stark portrayal of rebellion against God's appointed leaders, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. While Dathan and Abiram rebelled against Moses and Aaron, God's temporary earthly representatives, humanity's greatest rebellion has been against God's ultimate and eternal King, Jesus Christ. From the moment of His incarnation, Jesus was the divinely appointed leader, the [Son of God](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World") sent to gather His people. Yet, He was met with profound opposition, not only from the religious and political authorities of His day but from the very people He came to save (cf. [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own")). The "striving against the LORD" by Dathan and Abiram foreshadows the world's rejection of Christ, the true Lord, who came in humility and authority. Unlike the rebellious leaders who sought to usurp power, Jesus perfectly submitted to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross (cf. [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). His resurrection, however, vindicated His divine authority, establishing Him as the [Lord of all](/acts/10-36 "Acts 10:36 - Jesus Christ is Lord of All"). In Christ, we see not only the perfect example of submission to God's will but also the ultimate consequence for those who persist in rebellion against Him, and the glorious grace offered to those who repent and submit to His righteous reign, finding life and true belonging in His new covenant community.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 1:16

These [were] the renowned of the congregation, princes of the tribes of their fathers, heads of thousands in Israel.

Numbers 16:1

¶ Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took [men]:

Numbers 16:35

¶ And there came out a fire from the LORD, and consumed the two hundred and fifty men that offered incense.

Jude 1:11

Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.

Psalms 106:17

The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, and covered the company of Abiram.