Who Was On in the Bible?
Man Living at the Time of Egypt and the Wilderness
On, also referred to as the son of Peleth, is a figure mentioned in Numbers 16:1. He lived during the time of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their journey through the wilderness. On is notably associated with the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron, which is one of the most significant insurrections recorded in the Bible.
Numbers 16:1 (ESV)
“Now Korah the son of Izhar, son of Kohath, son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram the sons of Eliab, and On the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men.”
The Rebellion Against Moses and Aaron
The rebellion mentioned in Numbers 16 was a serious challenge to the God-appointed leadership of Moses and Aaron. On, along with Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, questioned the authority and leadership of Moses and Aaron, claiming that they were no more holy than the rest of the Israelites. This act of defiance was not just against human leaders but against God’s established order.
Numbers 16:3 (ESV)
“They assembled themselves together against Moses and against Aaron and said to them, ‘You have gone too far! For all in the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?'”
Consequences of the Rebellion
God’s response to the rebellion was swift and severe. Moses warned the congregation to separate themselves from the rebels. As a result, the earth opened up and swallowed Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and their households. Fire from the Lord consumed 250 men who had joined in offering incense, signifying God’s judgment against those who dared to challenge His chosen leaders.
Numbers 16:31-33 (ESV)
“And as soon as he had finished speaking all these words, the ground under them split apart. And the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up, with their households and all the people who belonged to Korah and all their goods. So they and all that belonged to them went down alive into Sheol, and the earth closed over them, and they perished from the midst of the assembly.”
The Role of On
While On is mentioned at the outset of the rebellion, there is no further reference to his involvement or fate in the subsequent verses. This absence has led to various interpretations among scholars, with some suggesting that On may have withdrawn from the rebellion before its disastrous end, thus sparing himself from the judgment that befell the other leaders.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Respecting God-Appointed Authority
The story of On and the rebellion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting and submitting to God-appointed leaders. Challenging God’s chosen authorities is equated with challenging God Himself. Modern Christians are called to honor and support their spiritual leaders, recognizing their roles as appointed by God for the guidance and well-being of the community.
Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)
“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
The Consequences of Rebellion
The severe consequences that followed the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram underscore the seriousness of rebellion against God’s established order. For believers today, this narrative is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, disobedience, and dissent against divine authority. It encourages Christians to cultivate humility and a spirit of obedience.
Proverbs 16:18 (ESV)
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Sovereignty and Justice
The account of the rebellion highlights God’s sovereignty and His commitment to justice. God’s swift response to the insurrection demonstrates His intolerance for defiance against His chosen leaders. Yet, it also reflects His desire to maintain order and holiness among His people. Believers can trust in God’s just nature, knowing that He will uphold righteousness.
Psalm 89:14 (ESV)
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.”
God’s Mercy and Redemption
Although the story of On is primarily one of judgment, it also implicitly points to God’s mercy. The possibility that On might have withdrawn from the rebellion suggests that repentance and turning away from sin can lead to redemption. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God’s willingness to forgive those who repent.
2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV)
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
Connection to Jesus Christ
Jesus as the Ultimate Authority
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of God-appointed authority. He is the perfect leader who embodies humility, obedience, and divine authority. The rebellion against Moses and Aaron foreshadows the ultimate rejection and crucifixion of Jesus, who, despite being rejected, provided the path to reconciliation with God.
Philippians 2:8-9 (ESV)
“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name.”
The Call to Follow Christ
In contrast to the rebellious spirit of Korah and his followers, Christians are called to follow Christ with humility and obedience. Jesus’ life and teachings provide the perfect example of submission to God’s will. By following Christ, believers can avoid the pitfalls of rebellion and live in harmony with God’s purposes.
John 14:23 (ESV)
“Jesus answered him, ‘If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.'”
Conclusion
On, the son of Peleth, is briefly mentioned in the context of a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron. This story highlights the severe consequences of challenging God-appointed authority and the importance of humility and obedience. For modern Christians, On’s story serves as a powerful lesson about respecting leadership, understanding God’s justice, and embracing the merciful redemption offered through Jesus Christ. By adhering to these principles, believers can live faithfully, honoring God’s established order and drawing closer to Him.