“and they rose up before Moses with some of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty leaders of the congregation, representatives of the congregation, men of renown. They gathered together against Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?” So when Moses heard it, he fell on his face; and he spoke to Korah and all his company, saying, “Tomorrow morning the Lord will show who is His and who is holy, and will cause him to come near to Him. That one whom He chooses He will cause to come near to Him.”
Numbers 16:2-5 NKJV
Moses heard grumblings and complaints from the Israelites since the moment they left Egypt. It was fairly common. But this was the first time that I can find that a group of Israelites formed a rebellion of sorts.
The Hebrew word “and they rose up” is qûm. In this passage, it indicates a hostile gathering – much like a violent protest that was gathered or organized suddenly. Three main men (v 1&24) incited 250 men to stand against Moses in an aggressive, accusatory manner. They were posturing for a battle.
Moses’ response? Fall on his face – not out of fear, but out of humility – showing himself fully dependent on G-d. It’s a posture mentioned often in Numbers – nāp̄al – prostrate, literally throwing oneself onto the mercy of another. Moses’ response to accusations, to violence, and to complaint was to place himself in a posture of complete dependence on G-d.
Violence runs rampant. Accusations and complaints echo loudly. People rise up in rebellion. How will I respond? I will nāp̄al. Face down. Dependent. Postured to hear His voice and let Him lead. He is my defender. I will look to Him alone to know when it’s time to speak or be still. When the enemy’s voice rises, I will go low and let G-d defend me.
Father – Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. Thank You for Your protection. Help me to trust You more. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: Numbers 16-17