### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Dâthân**, represented by `{{H1885}}`, refers to a specific Israelite. It appears **10 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. Though its derivation is uncertain, the name is significant as it is exclusively associated with a major rebellion against the leadership of Moses and Aaron.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Dâthân** is consistently presented alongside Abiram as a primary instigator in the rebellion of Korah. As sons of Eliab from the tribe of Reuben, they joined Korah in a challenge against the authority of Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 16:1]]. When Moses summoned them, **Dâthân** and Abiram defiantly refused to appear, stating, "We will not come up" [[Numbers 16:12]]. This act of insubordination culminated in a dramatic divine judgment, where the earth opened its mouth and swallowed **Dâthân**, his household, and his possessions [[Deuteronomy 11:6]]. The event is recalled in Psalms as a moment when "The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan" [[Psalms 106:17]]. Their story serves as a stark account of striving against not only Moses but against the LORD Himself [[Numbers 26:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the story of **Dâthân**:
* `{{H48}}` **ʼĂbîyrâm** (father of height): He is **Dâthân**'s brother and constant associate in the rebellion. Their names are almost always mentioned together, highlighting their shared role in the events ([[Numbers 16:1]], [[Deuteronomy 11:6]], [[Psalms 106:17]]).
* `{{H7141}}` **Qôrach** (ice): The leader of the infamous rebellion. **Dâthân** and Abiram are noted as being part of "the company of Korah" when they strove against God's appointed leaders [[Numbers 26:9]].
* `{{H5327}}` **nâtsâh** (to strive (together)): This word defines the central action of the rebellion. The record states that **Dâthân** and Abiram "strove against Moses and against Aaron...when they strove against the LORD" [[Numbers 26:9]].
* `{{H1104}}` **bâlaʻ** (to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy): This term describes the unique and terrifying judgment enacted upon **Dâthân**. The earth "swallowed them up" [[Deuteronomy 11:6]], completely destroying them for their rebellion.
* `{{H6475}}` **pâtsâh** (to rend, i.e. open): This word is used to describe how the earth acted as the agent of judgment, as it "opened her mouth, and swallowed them up" [[Deuteronomy 11:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **Dâthân**'s account is significant, serving as a powerful lesson.
* **Rebellion Against Divine Authority:** The story illustrates that challenging God's chosen leaders, Moses `{{H4872}}` and Aaron `{{H175}}`, was equated to striving directly against the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 26:9]]. **Dâthân**'s defiance was not merely political but spiritual.
* **The Certainty of Judgment:** The narrative demonstrates the severe and unforgettable consequences of such rebellion. The judgment was not an accident but a direct act where the earth `{{H776}}` itself carried out the sentence, swallowing `{{H1104}}` the offenders and everything they owned [[Deuteronomy 11:6]].
* **A Lasting Historical Warning:** The fate of **Dâthân** is recorded and repeated in Scripture to serve as a perpetual warning to Israel against pride and insurrection ([[Deuteronomy 11:6]], [[Psalms 106:17]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1885}}` **Dâthân** is more than just a historical name; it is a symbol of direct rebellion against God's established order. Forever linked with Abiram and Korah, his story is a concise and potent illustration of sin and its immediate, devastating consequences. The account serves as a permanent biblical landmark, demonstrating that striving against the LORD and His appointed servants leads to certain destruction.
TRV