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Patriarchs and Prophets
In this work of disaffection there was greater union and harmony
among the discordant elements of the congregation than had ever be-
fore existed. Korah’s success with the people increased his confidence
and confirmed him in his belief that the usurpation of authority by
Moses, if unchecked, would be fatal to the liberties of Israel; he also
claimed that God had opened the matter to him, and had authorized
him to make a change in the government before it should be too late.
But many were not ready to accept Korah’s accusations against Moses.
The memory of his patient, self-sacrificing labors came up before
them, and conscience was disturbed. It was therefore necessary to
assign some selfish motive for his deep interest for Israel; and the
old charge was reiterated, that he had led them out to perish in the
wilderness, that he might seize upon their possessions.
For a time this work was carried on secretly. As soon, however, as
the movement had gained sufficient strength to warrant an open rupture,
Korah appeared at the head of the faction, and publicly accused Moses
and Aaron of usurping authority which Korah and his associates were
equally entitled to share. It was charged, further, that the people had
been deprived of their liberty and independence. “Ye take too much
upon you,” said the conspirators, “seeing all the congregation are holy,
every one of them, and the Lord is among them: wherefore then lift ye
up yourselves above the congregation of the Lord?”
Moses had not suspected this deep-laid plot, and when its terrible
significance burst upon him, he fell upon his face in silent appeal to
God. He arose sorrowful indeed, but calm and strong. Divine guidance
had been granted him. “Even tomorrow,” he said, “the Lord will show
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.” The test was to be deferred until the morrow, that all might
have time for reflection. Then those who aspired to the priesthood
were to come each with a censer, and offer incense at the tabernacle
in the presence of the congregation. The law was very explicit that
only those who had been ordained to the sacred office should minister
in the sanctuary. And even the priests, Nadab and Abihu, had been
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destroyed for venturing to offer “strange fire,” in disregard of a divine
command. Yet Moses challenged his accusers, if they dared enter upon
so perilous an appeal, to refer the matter to God.