Numbers 16:10Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Thus, Korah, Abiron, and Dathan belonged to the lineage of Levi. While they were given the responsibility of the sacred tabernacle by God's divine will, they sought the honor of Moses and Aaron, pursuing glory for themselves without being divinely appointed. The faithful Moses, displaying his characteristic compassion, admonished them as if they were unwell, unaware of the severe consequence that awaited them. He reproached them, saying, "Let it be done unto you, ye sons of Levi." For "the food is not enough... that the God of all men hath made you chosen of all to such an honourable and excellent service?"

Korah, Dathan, and Abiron, who revolted against Moses and Aaron the priest, sought to seize the sacrificial rights for themselves and were swiftly met with divine retribution. The ground beneath them opened up, engulfing them alive, and the anger of the Lord struck not only the instigators but also swiftly consumed the two hundred and fifty others who had allied with them, participants in the same rebellious act. This serves as a powerful reminder that all efforts by the wicked to undermine the Divine order are ultimately directed against God.

The insurrection stemmed from a sense of dissatisfaction, which often leads to perilous and destructive consequences. A person can become irritable and prone to wrath, either due to the malicious behavior of others or through caustic remarks. This aligns with the actions of Dathan and Abiron, who incited the people and demanded recognition for themselves instead of Moses and Aaron. Consequently, they faced divine retribution, as they provoked the righteous to anger, speaking out of jealousy—an attitude well known to displease the Lord. This event serves as a testament to God’s glory, for He promises to safeguard His servants. The ground opened up and swallowed Dathan, while the company of Abiron met a similar fate.