Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Numbers 16:2

And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown:

Numbers 16:2 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Numbers, it describes a group of individuals who challenged the authority of Moses, the leader chosen by God to guide the Israelites. The two hundred and fifty princes were key figures in the assembly and were well-respected within the community. They were known for their fame and reputation among the congregation, being men of renown. Their actions in rising up before Moses signify a rebellion against his leadership and an attempt to assert their own power and authority. This event highlights the struggles and conflicts that arose among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Moses as he led the people towards the Promised Land, and the importance of following God's chosen leader. Through this verse, readers can reflect on the significance of obedience, humility, and respect for God-appointed leaders in times of turmoil and uncertainty.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Numbers, we see a group of individuals rising up against Moses, challenging his authority as the leader appointed by God. The term "princes of the assembly" refers to influential leaders among the Israelites who held positions of power and prominence within the community. These men were well-known and respected among the people, which made their rebellion all the more significant. By questioning Moses' leadership, they were directly challenging God's chosen representative and disregarding the divine authority that had been bestowed upon him. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, ambition, and rebellion against the will of God. It also highlights the importance of humility, obedience, and reverence for those whom God has placed in positions of leadership and authority. Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the consequences that can arise from defying God's chosen leaders and going against His plans.

Numbers 16:2 in other translations

American Standard Version

and they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the congregation, called to the assembly, men of renown;

World English Bible

They rose up before Moses, with some of the children of Israel, two hundred fifty princes of the congregation, called to the assembly, men of renown.

Douay-Rheims

Rose up against Moses, and with them two hundred and fifty others of the children of Israel, leading men of the synagogue, and who in the time of assembly were called by name.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And they rose vp against Moses, with certaine of the children of Israel, two hundreth and fiftie captaines of the assemblie, famous in the Congregation, and men of renoume,