Numbers 16:50

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

And Aaron {H175} returned {H7725} unto Moses {H4872} unto the door {H6607} of the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}: and the plague {H4046} was stayed {H6113}.

Aharon returned to Moshe at the entrance to the tent of meeting, and the plague was stopped.

Then Aaron returned to Moses at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, since the plague had been halted.

And Aaron returned unto Moses unto the door of the tent of meeting: and the plague was stayed.

Commentary

Numbers 16:50 describes the immediate cessation of a deadly plague in the Israelite camp, an event that underscores God's power, the efficacy of atonement, and the vital role of His appointed High Priest, Aaron.

Context

This verse concludes a dramatic and tragic episode in Israel's wilderness journey: the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against the divinely appointed leadership of Moses and Aaron. After God miraculously consumed the rebels and their followers, the entire congregation of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron, accusing them of killing the Lord's people (Numbers 16:41). This act of defiance provoked God's wrath, resulting in a sudden, devastating plague that swept through the camp.

Moses, seeing the plague begin, immediately instructed Aaron to take a censer, put fire from the altar in it, and add incense to make atonement for the people. Aaron, acting swiftly and obediently, ran into the midst of the congregation, literally standing between the living and the dead. Verse 50 marks the moment his intercession was effective: "And Aaron returned unto Moses unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the plague was stayed."

Key Themes

  • Divine Mercy and Intervention: Despite the people's persistent rebellion and grumbling, God, in His mercy, provided a way for the plague to be stopped. The immediate cessation demonstrates His direct intervention.
  • The Power of Atonement and Intercession: Aaron's act of taking incense and standing between the living and the dead was a direct, divinely ordained act of atonement. His priestly intercession was effective in turning away God's wrath, highlighting the critical role of a mediator. This event powerfully foreshadows the ultimate atoning work of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for believers.
  • Validation of God's Appointed Priesthood: The plague and its cessation through Aaron's action served to further validate Aaron's unique role as High Priest, chosen by God to mediate between Him and the people.
  • Consequences of Rebellion: The tragic loss of 14,700 lives (Numbers 16:49) stands as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of defying God's authority and His chosen leaders.

Linguistic Insights

The word "stayed" in KJV (Hebrew: Χ’ΦΈΧ¦Φ·Χ¨, 'atsar) means to restrain, hold back, or shut up. It implies a complete and immediate cessation, not a gradual slowing. This emphasizes the direct and powerful act of God in halting the destruction in response to Aaron's obedience and intercession.

Practical Application

Numbers 16:50 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • The Urgency of Intercession: Aaron's swift response teaches us the importance of timely and fervent prayer, especially when faced with spiritual or physical crises.
  • Understanding Mediation: This event vividly illustrates the need for a mediator between a holy God and sinful humanity. While Aaron served this role for Israel, we now have a perfect and eternal High Priest in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16), who offers constant intercession for us.
  • God's Balance of Justice and Mercy: The narrative demonstrates that while God's justice is sure, His mercy is also profound, providing a way for reconciliation and relief from judgment through atonement.
  • Respect for Spiritual Authority: The entire rebellion and its aftermath underscore the importance of respecting the authority God establishes, both in the Old Testament priesthood and in spiritual leadership today.

Ultimately, this verse is a powerful reminder of God's sovereign control over life and death, and His gracious provision of atonement through an appointed mediator, culminating in the saving work of Christ.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 21:26 (2 votes)

    And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering.

  • 1 Chronicles 21:30 (2 votes)

    But David could not go before it to enquire of God: for he was afraid because of the sword of the angel of the LORD.

  • Numbers 16:43 (2 votes)

    And Moses and Aaron came before the tabernacle of the congregation.