Numbers 16:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Holy Scripture reveals that the divine Aaron was appointed as high priest and leader by a decree from above. However, Koreus and Dathan, along with a reckless group of their supporters, boldly defied this divine decree and rebelled against the sacred laws. They presumptuously offered incense, claiming a position of honor not meant for them, contrasting their own foolishness and arrogance with the revered high priest, who was chosen above all. This foreshadows the future rebellion of the Jews against Christ, our Bishop, who has been established in this role by the Father's will. They faced consequences for their disgraceful actions, and similarly, the Jews who followed in their footsteps will also face judgment for their transgressions.

Korah may have had some justification for opposing the Lawgiver due to his lineage from the tribe of Levi; however, what rationale did Dathan, Abiron, and Eliab possess for their rebellion, given that they were descendants of Reuben (Num. 16:1-2)? As the firstborn, Reuben’s lineage believed that the priestly role was meant for them, yet they overlooked the crucial detail that their forefather had lost the rights of primogeniture because of his wrongdoing.