Numbers 16:48 - He stood between the dead and the living; and the plague was stayed.

Generated Verse: Numbers 16:48

What does "Numbers 16:48" mean?


Numbers 16 tells the story of Korah's rebellion against Moses and Aaron. In this particular verse, Numbers 16:48, the context is that God has sent a plague upon the Israelite people as a consequence of their grumbling and siding with Korah.

Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

"He": This refers to Aaron, the High Priest.
"stood between the dead and the living": Aaron physically positioned himself between those who had already died from the plague and those who were still alive and susceptible to it. This was a symbolic act of intercession and mediation. He was literally acting as a buffer between life and death.
"and the plague was stayed": Because of Aaron's act of obedience, intercession, and sacrifice, God stopped the plague from spreading further.

Deeper Significance:

Intercession: Aaron's act highlights the role of the priest (and by extension, any intercessor) as someone who stands in the gap between God and humanity. He is pleading for mercy and forgiveness on behalf of the people.
Atonement/Sacrifice: Aaron used incense from the altar, signifying prayer and atonement. This act reminded the people of their need for purification and God's provision for their sin.
Authority: The story reinforces the divine authority of Moses and Aaron and the importance of obeying God's appointed leaders.
Foretelling Christ: Some Christians see this passage as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate mediator and intercessor between God and humanity. He stands between us and death (both physical and spiritual) and offers forgiveness and reconciliation through his sacrifice.

In essence, Numbers 16:48 describes a powerful moment of divine intervention prompted by Aaron's act of intercession, demonstrating the power of prayer and the significance of God's appointed authority.