Numbers 16:32Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The earth not only failed to support itself but caused even greater devastation than the sea when it opened up to consume Dathan and buried the company of Abiron. Numerous additional wonders are evident in creation that should convince those who worship nature that not everything results from the forces of nature; rather, all of creation obeys and yields to the divine will of God. This divine will is the origin of nature, directing all that exists, either maintaining the established laws of the universe or effortlessly altering them as desired, even compelling them to behave contrary to their nature.

They persisted in their hardened hearts, unyielding and unchecked in their pride, until their folly led them to disaster, when “the earth opened its mouth,” consuming them along with their families and possessions, resulting in a remarkable destruction, for “they descended ... alive into the underworld,” as it is written. Therefore, it is wicked and deserving of death in the sight of God to rebel against those in authority and to disregard those appointed over us who have received special favor from God. It is wise to cherish what we possess and express gratitude, avoiding impulsive desires for what exceeds our grasp, and refraining from coveting what is yet to be granted, treating as common what is solely under the control of God.

The insurrectionists who emerged among the faithful, having distanced themselves from the established community, were consumed alive by the earth's opening as a tangible demonstration of unseen retribution.

However, the reality of God's judgment prevails over Moses' empathy for his people. By God's decree, the earth opens its mouth and then closes again, engulfing all those, along with their families, who had elevated themselves against Moses' authority.

They were consumed, engulfed by the earth's opening, while the remainder of that vast multitude was scorched by divine fire. The Scripture conveys, I believe, that the conclusion of arrogant pride results in a descent into the depths. Some might rightly conclude that pride is, in fact, a descent into darkness. If others, however, argue the opposite, do not be surprised; for many perceive pride as merely being elevated above the rest.

Korah, Dathan, and Abiron, who rose up against Moses and Aaron the priest, sought to seize the right to offer sacrifices for themselves. They faced swift retribution for their insurrection: the ground opened up and engulfed them while they were still alive. Additionally, the anger of the Lord not only struck the leaders but also quickly consumed the two hundred and fifty others who conspired with them in this folly. This serves as a stern reminder that all efforts by the wicked to undermine God’s ordained order ultimately stand in opposition to Him.

The uprising stemmed from the excess of the flesh, which often leads to perilous and destructive outcomes. It is observed that a person becomes agitated and prone to wrath, either due to the malicious deeds of others or through harsh remarks. This is exemplified in the case of Dathan and Abiron, who incited the community and fervently sought recognition for themselves over Moses and Aaron. Consequently, they faced judgment, as their actions provoked the righteous to anger, driven by envy that the Lord deems unacceptable. This is widely acknowledged as a testament to the Lord's sovereignty, for He affirms His commitment to safeguard His servants. The earth opened its mouth and consumed Dathan, while the company of Abiron was enveloped.

One who, within the fellowship of the hermit, prefers to pursue personal desires or even exercise authority rather than yield to others has yet to distance himself from the pride and ambition characteristic of the world. He should exercise caution against associating with the multitude of Korea, whose ultimate fate reveals that the unyielding desert earth is unwilling to support those who are domineering and insubordinate.