Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Numbers 16:24?
A: Numbers 16:24 occurs during the rebellion of Korach, Datan, and Aviram against Moshe (Moses) and Aharon (Aaron). Hashem instructs Moshe to warn the people to distance themselves from the tents of these rebels to avoid being caught in their punishment. This shows the severity of opposing divinely appointed leadership.
Q: Why did Hashem tell the people to move away from Korach's dwelling?
A: According to Rashi, Hashem commanded the people to separate themselves from Korach and his followers to avoid being associated with their sin and punishment. The earth was about to swallow them as divine retribution for their rebellion, and those nearby could be harmed if they didn't distance themselves.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Numbers 16:24?
A: The verse teaches the importance of distancing oneself from conflict and those who rebel against proper authority, especially when it goes against Torah values. The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 6:1) explains that we must separate from bad influences to avoid being affected by their wrongdoing.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: Just as the Israelites were told to separate from Korach's rebellion, we must distance ourselves from disputes that undermine Torah authority or communal harmony. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 110a) states that getting involved in unnecessary arguments is a serious matter, and this verse reminds us to choose peace wisely.
Q: Why were Datan and Aviram mentioned separately from Korach?
A: Rashi explains that while Korach's rebellion was primarily about challenging the Kehunah (priesthood), Datan and Aviram opposed Moshe's leadership entirely. Their sin was worse, as they rejected Moshe's divine appointment altogether, which is why they are singled out in this warning.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bamidbar 16:24) appears in the narrative of Korach's rebellion against Moshe and Aharon. Hashem commands Moshe to warn the congregation to distance themselves from the dwellings of Korach, Datan, and Aviram to avoid being caught in their impending punishment.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that the phrase "הֵעָלוּ מִסָּבִיב" ("Get up from about") implies that the people needed to physically move away from the area surrounding Korach's tent. This was to separate the righteous from the wicked before divine judgment was executed. Rashi further notes that the congregation was given this warning to demonstrate that the punishment was from Hashem and not a natural occurrence.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos De'os 6:1) derives from this verse the principle of "הרחק מן הכיעור ומן הדומה לו"—"Distance yourself from what is unseemly and from what resembles it." The command to separate from Korach's camp teaches the importance of distancing oneself from sinful influences to avoid being spiritually tainted.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Sanhedrin 109b) discusses this verse in the context of the severity of machlokes (dispute). It teaches that one must distance themselves from those who engage in baseless conflict, as their influence can be spiritually destructive. This aligns with the Torah's command to separate from Korach's followers.
Chassidic Interpretation
The Sfas Emes (Korach) explains that the command to "get up" also carries a spiritual dimension—to elevate oneself above petty disputes and ego-driven conflicts. The physical separation was a metaphor for rising above the negativity of machlokes and aligning with truth.