### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Qôrach**, represented by `{{H7141}}`, is the proper name **Korah**. It appears **37 times** across **37 unique verses**. The name is used for two Edomites and three Israelites, most notably an Israelite who led a significant rebellion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7141}}` is used in several distinct contexts. Early mentions establish **Korah** as a descendant of Esau, listed as both a son and a duke of Edom ([[Genesis 36:5]], [[Genesis 36:16]]). The name also appears in the lineage of Judah as a son of Hebron [[1 Chronicles 2:43]]. However, the most prominent use refers to **Korah** the Levite, son of Izhar, who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron [[Numbers 16:1]]. This event culminated in the earth opening its mouth to swallow **Korah** and his company ([[Numbers 16:32]], [[Numbers 26:10]]). Despite this judgment, the narrative explicitly states that the children of **Korah** did not die [[Numbers 26:11]]. Subsequently, the "sons of **Korah**" are frequently mentioned as authors or recipients of several Psalms ([[Psalms 42:1]], [[Psalms 46:1]], [[Psalms 84:1]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the narrative and legacy of **Korah**:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word establishes the lineage of the rebellious **Korah** [[Numbers 16:1]] but is also central to the legacy of his descendants, the "sons of **Korah**," who authored many psalms [[Psalms 42:1]].
* `{{H5712}}` **ʻêdâh** (company): This term is used to describe the assembly that joined **Korah** in rebellion against the LORD ([[Numbers 16:5]], [[Numbers 27:3]]), defining the scope of the insurrection.
* `{{H1104}}` **bâlaʻ** (to swallow down): This verb describes the divine judgment upon the rebellion, as the earth "swallowed them up" along with **Korah** [[Numbers 26:10]], providing a vivid picture of the consequences.
* `{{H7145}}` **Qorchîy** (Korahite): This term identifies the descendants of **Korah**, who, despite their ancestor's sin, went on to serve as keepers of the tabernacle gates [[1 Chronicles 9:19]] and form families known as the Korhites [[Exodus 6:24]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H7141}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating themes of rebellion, judgment, and redemption.
* **Rebellion Against God's Chosen Authority:** The rebellion of **Korah** was not merely against Moses and Aaron but was a direct challenge to God's ordained leadership, described as striving "against the LORD" [[Numbers 26:9]]. The event served as a permanent "memorial" against usurping priestly roles not assigned by God [[Numbers 16:40]].
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** God's response to the rebellion is a stark display of His sovereignty. He declares, "the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy" [[Numbers 16:5]]. The judgment is decisive, with the earth swallowing the rebels [[Numbers 16:32]] and fire consuming those offering incense [[Numbers 26:10]], affirming God's authority.
* **Generational Grace and Redemption:** A crucial theological point is that "the children of **Korah** died not" [[Numbers 26:11]]. This act of grace allowed the lineage to continue. The descendants, known as the "sons of **Korah**," were not defined by their ancestor's sin but went on to become authors of scripture, with their names attached to numerous psalms of worship and trust in God ([[Psalms 44:1]], [[Psalms 85:1]], [[Psalms 87:1]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7141}}` **Qôrach** represents more than just a name; it embodies a dramatic biblical arc from sin to redemption. While the name is associated with Edomite dukes and other Israelites, its primary significance is tied to the Levite who led a catastrophic rebellion against God's authority. However, the story does not end with judgment. The survival of his children [[Numbers 26:11]] and their subsequent role as psalmists transforms the legacy of **Korah** into a powerful testament to God's mercy, showing how a name once synonymous with rebellion could become associated with profound worship and service to the LORD.
TRV