Numbers 16:27 (KJV)

What does Numbers 16:27 mean?

Numbers 16:27 describes how the people moved away from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, while Dathan and Abiram came out and stood at the entrances of their tents with their wives, sons, and little children. This verse sets the scene for what is about to happen to these men and their families as a result of their rebellion.

In this passage, Moses is warning the Israelites to separate themselves from the rebels to avoid sharing in their punishment. The verse highlights the seriousness of the situation by mentioning not only the leaders but also their entire households standing at their tent doors. The focus on their families makes the coming judgment feel more personal and weighty.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 16:27

• The word "tabernacle" (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan, H4908) here refers to the dwelling place or tent of each rebellious leader, not the central sanctuary. This helps clarify that the people are moving away from the personal homes of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.
• The word "door" (פֶּתַח, petach, H6607) means the entrance or opening of the tent, emphasizing that Dathan and Abiram are standing visibly at the threshold, making their defiance public.
• The word "children" (טַף, taf, H2945) specifically refers to little children or dependents, highlighting that even the youngest members of the families are present and affected by what is about to happen.

Why Numbers 16:27 matters

• This verse clears up any confusion about who is involved in the coming judgment by showing that entire families, not just the leaders, are present and at risk.
• The detail about standing at the tent doors underscores the public and deliberate nature of Dathan and Abiram’s stance against Moses and God’s command.
• By describing the separation of the rest of the people, Numbers 16:27 sets up a sharp contrast between those who obey Moses’ warning and those who remain with the rebels, highlighting the seriousness of the rebellion and its consequences.