Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 16:29 mean?
A: In Numbers 16:29, Moshe (Moses) is speaking during the rebellion of Korach. He declares that if Korach and his followers die a natural death like all people, it would prove that he (Moshe) was not truly sent by Hashem. However, if they die in an unnatural way, it would be a sign that Moshe's leadership is divinely appointed. Rashi explains that this was a test to show that Moshe acted only by Hashem's command.
Q: Why is this verse important?
A: This verse is important because it demonstrates the principle of divine justice and the authenticity of Moshe's prophecy. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 110a) discusses this incident as a lesson about the severity of challenging Torah leadership unjustly. It also teaches that Hashem confirms His messengers through clear signs when necessary.
Q: What can we learn from Numbers 16:29 today?
A: We learn that true Jewish leadership must align with Torah principles and Hashem's will. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah) discusses how genuine prophets are validated through signs when needed. This verse also warns against baseless disputes (machlokes), as Korach's rebellion brought severe consequences.
Q: How did Korach and his followers actually die?
A: As described in the following verses (Numbers 16:31-33), the earth miraculously opened and swallowed Korach and his followers alive, proving Moshe's words true. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 18:12) elaborates that this was a unique punishment showing direct divine intervention, unlike natural deaths.
Q: Does this verse mean we should test leaders today?
A: No, the Torah (Devarim 18:20-22) establishes clear criteria for prophets, but after the closing of the Tanach, we no longer test leaders this way. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim) explains that today we follow Torah sages based on their wisdom and adherence to halacha, not miraculous signs.
Context of the Verse
This verse appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 16:29, where Moshe Rabbeinu addresses the rebellion of Korach and his followers. Moshe declares that if Korach and his assembly die a natural death like all other people, it will prove that his leadership is not divinely ordained. However, if they meet an unnatural fate, it will confirm that Hashem has indeed sent him.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that Moshe is presenting a clear test of divine authority. The phrase "If these men die the common death of all men" refers to a natural death from illness or old age. The second part, "if they be visited after the visitation of all men," means if they are punished in a way that aligns with typical divine justice for sinners. If either occurs, Moshe asserts that his mission is not from Hashem.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides), in his philosophical works, emphasizes that true prophets are validated through divine signs that align with Torah principles. Here, Moshe sets a criterion for prophecy: an extraordinary event must accompany his words to confirm their divine origin. The unnatural death of Korach’s assembly serves as such a sign.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 90a) discusses this verse in the context of techiyas hameisim (resurrection of the dead), noting that Moshe’s declaration implies a belief in divine justice beyond natural death. The unnatural punishment of Korach’s assembly serves as a precedent for understanding divine intervention in human affairs.
Key Themes