Numbers 16:9 - Is it a small thing to you, that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself, to do the service of Yahweh’s tabernacle, and to stand before the congregation to minister to them;
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What does "Numbers 16:9" mean?
Numbers 16:9 is part of Moses' rebuke of Korah and his followers who are challenging Moses' and Aaron's authority. Let's break down the verse to understand its meaning:
"Is it a small thing to you...": This phrase is rhetorical. Moses is emphasizing that what Korah and his followers have is not insignificant. They are taking their privileged position for granted and coveting more power.
"...that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel...": This refers to the fact that Korah and his followers are Levites. The Levites were chosen by God to be set apart for specific service in the tabernacle and were not given land within the Promised Land, as were the other tribes.
"...to bring you near to himself...": This highlights the unique closeness and access the Levites had to God, through their service in the tabernacle. They were not just ordinary members of the Israelite community; they had a special connection with the divine.
"...to do the service of Yahweh’s tabernacle...": This explains the nature of their set-apart position. They were responsible for the physical upkeep of the tabernacle, preparing sacrifices, and other essential tasks. This was a vital role in the religious life of Israel.
"...and to stand before the congregation to minister to them;": Levites had specific duties in serving and assisting the people during worship and religious ceremonies.
In essence, Moses is saying to Korah and his followers:
"You have already been given a great honor and privilege by God. You are set apart from the rest of the community to serve Him directly and to minister to the people in sacred ways. Why are you so dissatisfied that you want more power and authority? Your current position is already a tremendous blessing!"
The underlying message is about:
Gratitude and contentment: Recognizing and appreciating the blessings and opportunities God has already provided.
Humility: Acknowledging that God's choice of leadership and roles is not to be challenged out of ambition or jealousy.
The seriousness of rebellion against God's appointed leaders: Challenging Moses and Aaron was seen as challenging God Himself.
The value of service: The Levites' role, while not one of ultimate authority, was crucial to the spiritual well-being of the entire community.
By asking "Is it a small thing to you?", Moses is trying to make Korah and his company realize the gravity of their actions and the ingratitude they are displaying in their quest for more power.
Numbers 16:9 - Is it a small thing to you, that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself, to do the service of Yahweh’s tabernacle, and to stand before the congregation to minister to them;
What does "Numbers 16:9" mean?
Numbers 16:9 is part of Moses' rebuke of Korah and his followers who are challenging Moses' and Aaron's authority. Let's break down the verse to understand its meaning:
"Is it a small thing to you...": This phrase is rhetorical. Moses is emphasizing that what Korah and his followers have is not insignificant. They are taking their privileged position for granted and coveting more power.
"...that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel...": This refers to the fact that Korah and his followers are Levites. The Levites were chosen by God to be set apart for specific service in the tabernacle and were not given land within the Promised Land, as were the other tribes.
"...to bring you near to himself...": This highlights the unique closeness and access the Levites had to God, through their service in the tabernacle. They were not just ordinary members of the Israelite community; they had a special connection with the divine.
"...to do the service of Yahweh’s tabernacle...": This explains the nature of their set-apart position. They were responsible for the physical upkeep of the tabernacle, preparing sacrifices, and other essential tasks. This was a vital role in the religious life of Israel.
"...and to stand before the congregation to minister to them;": Levites had specific duties in serving and assisting the people during worship and religious ceremonies.
In essence, Moses is saying to Korah and his followers:
"You have already been given a great honor and privilege by God. You are set apart from the rest of the community to serve Him directly and to minister to the people in sacred ways. Why are you so dissatisfied that you want more power and authority? Your current position is already a tremendous blessing!"
The underlying message is about:
Gratitude and contentment: Recognizing and appreciating the blessings and opportunities God has already provided.
Humility: Acknowledging that God's choice of leadership and roles is not to be challenged out of ambition or jealousy.
The seriousness of rebellion against God's appointed leaders: Challenging Moses and Aaron was seen as challenging God Himself.
The value of service: The Levites' role, while not one of ultimate authority, was crucial to the spiritual well-being of the entire community.
By asking "Is it a small thing to you?", Moses is trying to make Korah and his company realize the gravity of their actions and the ingratitude they are displaying in their quest for more power.