Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened in Numbers 16:35?
A: In Numbers 16:35, a fire came forth from Hashem and consumed the 250 men who wrongly offered incense. This occurred during the rebellion of Korach, when these men challenged the leadership of Moshe and Aharon. Rashi explains that this was a Divine punishment for their unauthorized attempt to take on the role of the Kohanim (priests), which was reserved only for Aharon and his descendants.
Q: Why did Hashem punish the 250 men with fire?
A: The 250 men were punished with fire because they improperly offered incense, which was a sacred service reserved only for the Kohanim (priests). The Midrash teaches that fire was specifically used because they sinned with fire (by offering unauthorized incense), and measure for measure, they were punished with fire. Additionally, the Talmud (Sanhedrin 52a) notes that fire from Heaven is a sign of a severe Heavenly decree for those who rebel against Divinely appointed leadership.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Korach's rebellion and the punishment in Numbers 16:35?
A: The incident teaches the importance of respecting Divinely appointed roles and avoiding unwarranted disputes (machlokes). The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 6:1-3) emphasizes that Korach's rebellion stemmed from jealousy and a desire for honor, which led to tragedy. This verse reminds us to accept our proper roles in life and not covet positions that are not meant for us, as doing so can have severe consequences.
Q: How does the punishment in Numbers 16:35 relate to Jewish law today?
A: While we no longer see open miracles like fire from Heaven, the principle remains that unauthorized changes to Torah law are forbidden. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 128) rules that only Kohanim may perform certain Temple services, reflecting the eternal lesson of this verse. Additionally, Jewish communities still follow the Torah's model of respecting proper rabbinic and communal leadership to avoid discord.
Q: Why were the 250 men punished so severely for offering incense?
A: The punishment was severe because their act represented a fundamental challenge to the Torah's structure. Rashi explains that incense symbolizes closeness to Hashem, and by offering it improperly, they sought to undermine the unique role of the Kohanim. The Ramban adds that their public rebellion threatened the entire spiritual foundation of the Jewish people, requiring a strong response to preserve the sanctity of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) service.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Numbers 16:35) describes the punishment of Korach and his followers, who rebelled against Moshe and Aharon. After challenging their leadership, 250 men offered unauthorized incense (ketoret), leading to divine retribution through a consuming fire.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that the fire emerged from the Holy of Holies, where the heavenly fire typically descended for the altar. This emphasizes that the punishment was a direct divine response, not a natural occurrence. The fire specifically targeted those who improperly sought the priesthood, highlighting the severity of usurping sacred roles.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Moreh Nevuchim (3:51) discusses this incident as a lesson against rebellion and unauthorized religious innovation. The punishment demonstrates that divine service must follow halachic guidelines—personal zeal without proper authority leads to catastrophic consequences.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Talmud (Yoma 53a) derives from this episode that offering ketoret without authorization is punishable by karet (divine excision). This reinforces the principle that the priesthood and Temple service require strict adherence to Torah law.
Moral Lessons
Rabbeinu Bachya notes that Korach’s rebellion stemmed from envy and ambition. The fire symbolizes how unchecked desire for honor consumes a person spiritually. The verse thus serves as a warning against machloket (divisive conflict) and improper motivations in religious pursuits.