Numbers 16:10
Numbers 16:10 in Multiple Translations
He has brought you near, you and all your fellow Levites, but you are seeking the priesthood as well.
And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also?
and that he hath brought thee near, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee? and seek ye the priesthood also?
Letting you, and all your brothers the sons of Levi, come near to him? and would you now be priests?
He has allowed you the privilege of approaching him, Korah, you and all the other Levites, but now you want to have the priesthood as well!
He hath also taken thee to him, and all thy brethren the sonnes of Leui with thee, and seeke ye the office of the Priest also?
yea, He doth bring thee near, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee — and ye have sought also the priesthood!
and that he has brought you near, and all your brothers the sons of Levi with you? Do you seek the priesthood also?
And he hath brought thee near to him , and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also?
Did he therefore make thee and all thy brethren the sons of Levi to approach unto him, that you should challenge to yourselves the priesthood also,
Yahweh has brought you, Korah, and your fellow descendants of Levi, near to himself. Now are you demanding to become priests also?
Berean Amplified Bible — Numbers 16:10
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Numbers 16:10 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יַּקְרֵב֙
אֹֽתְ/ךָ֔
וְ/אֶת
כָּל
אַחֶ֥י/ךָ
בְנֵי
לֵוִ֖י
אִתָּ֑/ךְ
וּ/בִקַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
גַּם
כְּהֻנָּֽה
וַ/יַּקְרֵב֙
qârab
H7126
to present
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֹֽתְ/ךָ֔
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
אַחֶ֥י/ךָ
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-mp | Suff
בְנֵי
bên
H1121
son
N-mp
לֵוִ֖י
Lêvîy
H3878
Levi
N-proper
אִתָּ֑/ךְ
ʼêth
H854
with
Prep | Suff
וּ/בִקַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
bâqash
H1245
to seek
Conj | V-Piel-2mp
גַּם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
כְּהֻנָּֽה
kᵉhunnâh
H3550
priesthood
N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Numbers 16:10
וַ/יַּקְרֵב֙
qârab
H7126
"to present"
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3ms
To approach or come near someone or something, often with a sense of purpose or intention, like Moses approaching the burning bush in Exodus 3:5. This word can also mean to bring someone or something near, as in presenting an offering to God.
Definition: : come/approach 1) to come near, approach, enter into, draw near 1a) (Qal) to approach, draw near 1b) (Niphal) to be brought near 1c) (Piel) to cause to approach, bring near, cause to draw near 1d) (Hiphil) to bring near, bring, present
Usage: Occurs in 263 OT verses. KJV: (cause to) approach, (cause to) bring (forth, near), (cause to) come (near, nigh), (cause to) draw near (nigh), go (near), be at hand, join, be near, offer, present, produce, make ready, stand, take. See also: Genesis 12:11; Leviticus 22:22; 1 Samuel 10:21.
אֹֽתְ/ךָ֔
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
אַחֶ֥י/ךָ
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
בְנֵי
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
לֵוִ֖י
Lêvîy
H3878
"Levi"
N-proper
Levi was a son of Jacob and Leah, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. He was a brother of Reuben, Simeon, and Judah, and the father of Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. Levi's name is significant in the tribe of Levi.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) § Levi = "joined to" the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah and progenitor of tribe of Levites
Usage: Occurs in 61 OT verses. KJV: Levi. See also H3879 (לֵוִי), H3881 (לֵוִיִּי). See also: Genesis 29:34; Deuteronomy 27:12; Psalms 135:20.
אִתָּ֑/ךְ
ʼêth
H854
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Definition: 1) with, near, together with 1a) with, together with 1b) with (of relationship) 1c) near (of place) 1d) with (poss.) 1e) from...with, from (with other prep)
Usage: Occurs in 787 OT verses. KJV: against, among, before, by, for, from, in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional prefix. See also: Genesis 4:1; Genesis 42:32; Numbers 1:5.
וּ/בִקַּשְׁתֶּ֖ם
bâqash
H1245
"to seek"
Conj | V-Piel-2mp
This Hebrew verb means to seek or search for something. In Psalm 105:4, it's used to encourage seeking God's face. It's also used in 1 Samuel 28:8 where Saul seeks a medium.
Definition: 1) to seek, require, desire, exact, request 1a) (Piel) 1a1) to seek to find 1a2) to seek to secure 1a3) to seek the face 1a4) to desire, demand 1a5) to require, exact 1a6) to ask, request 1b) (Pual) to be sought
Usage: Occurs in 215 OT verses. KJV: ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for). See also: Genesis 31:39; Esther 7:7; Psalms 4:3.
גַּם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
כְּהֻנָּֽה
kᵉhunnâh
H3550
"priesthood"
N-fs
The priesthood refers to the office or position of a priest, like the Levitical priesthood in the Old Testament. It involves serving God and leading others in worship. The Bible describes the responsibilities and duties of the priesthood in the book of Leviticus.
Definition: priesthood
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: priesthood, priest's office. See also: Exodus 29:9; Numbers 25:13; Nehemiah 13:29.
Study Notes — Numbers 16:10
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Numbers 16:10 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Numbers 16:10
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 16:10
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
- Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
- Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
- Cambridge Bible on Numbers 16:10
- Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
- Sermons on Numbers 16:10
Context — Korah’s Rebellion
8Moses also said to Korah, “Now listen, you sons of Levi!
9Is it not enough for you that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel and brought you near to Himself to perform the work at the LORD’s tabernacle, and to stand before the congregation to minister to them?
10He has brought you near, you and all your fellow Levites, but you are seeking the priesthood as well.
11Therefore, it is you and all your followers who have conspired against the LORD! As for Aaron, who is he that you should grumble against him?” 12Then Moses summoned Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, but they said, “We will not come!Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 13:10 | Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised. |
| 2 | 3 John 1:9 | I have written to the church about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not accept our instruction. |
| 3 | Numbers 18:7 | But only you and your sons shall attend to your priesthood for everything concerning the altar and what is inside the veil, and you are to perform that service. I am giving you the work of the priesthood as a gift, but any outsider who comes near the sanctuary must be put to death.” |
| 4 | Luke 22:24 | A dispute also arose among the disciples as to which of them would be considered the greatest. |
| 5 | Matthew 20:21–22 | “What do you want?” He inquired. She answered, “Declare that in Your kingdom one of these two sons of mine may sit at Your right hand, and the other at Your left.” “You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” “We can,” the brothers answered. |
| 6 | Philippians 2:3 | Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. |
| 7 | Numbers 3:10 | So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons to carry out the duties of the priesthood; but any outsider who approaches the tabernacle must be put to death.” |
| 8 | Romans 12:10 | Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another. |
Numbers 16:10 Summary
[In Numbers 16:10, Moses reminds Korah and the Levites that they have already been brought near to God and have a special role to play in His plan. This verse teaches us that God has appointed different roles and responsibilities for each person, and it's essential to be content with and faithful in our own role, rather than seeking something that is not ours to have (as seen in Romans 12:3-8). By focusing on our own relationship with God and the tasks He has given us, we can avoid the trap of pride and discontentment. As we reflect on this verse, we can ask ourselves if we are seeking a position or role that is not ours to take, and if we are being faithful in the role that God has given us (as taught in 1 Corinthians 7:20-24).]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue Moses is addressing in Numbers 16:10?
Moses is pointing out that Korah and the Levites are seeking a position that is not theirs to take, as stated in Numbers 16:10, and this is a form of rebellion against God's appointed leadership, as seen in Exodus 4:14 and Numbers 3:10.
Why are Korah and the Levites seeking the priesthood?
Korah and the Levites are seeking the priesthood because they want more power and authority, but as Moses says in Numbers 16:10, they are already brought near to God and have a special role, as described in Numbers 3:6-10 and Deuteronomy 10:8.
Is it wrong for the Levites to desire a closer relationship with God?
No, it's not wrong to desire a closer relationship with God, as seen in Psalm 42:1-2, but in this case, Korah and the Levites are seeking a role that is not theirs, and this is rooted in pride and a lack of contentment with their current position, as warned against in 1 Timothy 6:6 and Hebrews 13:5.
What can we learn from Moses' response to Korah and the Levites?
We can learn that God has appointed different roles and responsibilities for each person, as seen in Romans 12:3-8 and 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, and it's essential to be content with and faithful in our own role, rather than seeking something that is not ours to have, as taught in 1 Corinthians 7:20-24 and Colossians 3:23-24.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I might be seeking a position or role that is not mine to take, and how can I humbly submit to God's plan for my life?
- In what ways have I been 'brought near' to God, and how can I cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and contentment with my current position?
- How can I balance my desire for a closer relationship with God with a humble recognition of my own limitations and the roles that God has appointed for others?
- What are some warning signs that I might be motivated by pride or a desire for power, rather than a genuine desire to serve God and others?
Gill's Exposition on Numbers 16:10
And he hath brought thee near [to him],.... To be in his courts, to watch in his house, and wait on his priests, for which an ample provision was made by tithes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Numbers 16:10
And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him: even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
There being at this time but very few priests, and the profits and privileges belonging to them being many and great, they thought it but fit and reasonable that they, or some of the chief of them, should be admitted to share in their work and advantages.
Trapp's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
Numbers 16:10 And he hath brought thee near [to him], and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also?Ver. 10. And seek ye the priesthood also.] Ambition is restless and unsatisfiable; for, like the crocodile, it grows as long as it lives.
Ellicott's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
(10) And seek ye the priesthood also?—The Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan understand the reference to be to the high priesthood. As the other Levites who belonged to Korah’s company sought the priesthood, so Korah may have aimed at the high priesthood.
Cambridge Bible on Numbers 16:10
8–11. In these verses Korah’s company, represented as Levites, claim the privileges of the priesthood (see prelim. note to the chapter).
Whedon's Commentary on Numbers 16:10
10. Seek ye the priesthood also — The sacred office will always be attractive to wicked men, not because they wish to draw nigh to God, but because they desire power over their fellow men.
Sermons on Numbers 16:10
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Pride by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of divorce and the breaking up of families, stating that it is a plague that is sweeping the church. The preacher emphasizes the im |
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If My People Humble Themselves - Part 2 by Shane Idleman | This sermon delves into the destructive nature of pride, highlighting personal struggles with pride and the impact it has on relationships, families, and spiritual life. It emphasi |
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7 Ways Pride Deceives by Shane Idleman | This sermon delves into the dangers of pride, highlighting how it leads to deception, rebellion, spiritual blindness, quarrels, confusion, anxiety, depression, and false worship. T |
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The Deception of Pride by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the dangers of pride in his sermon 'The Deception of Pride,' explaining how it can lead to a lack of love, critical attitudes, and a false sense of securit |
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If My People Humble Themselves by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical need for humility in the Christian life, warning that pride is deceptive and can lead to personal and relational destruction. He reflects on h |
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Arrogant: Who, Me ? by Anton Bosch | Anton Bosch preaches on the dangers of pride, emphasizing that those who believe they have overcome pride are actually the most arrogant. Pride is considered the worst of all sins, |
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The Seven Pillars of Wisdom by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen preaches on the clear contrast between the Bride and the Harlot as depicted in Proverbs chapter 9. The Bride invites the foolish to turn from sin and learn the fear of t |