Dathan

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: From Hebrew Dātān, likely “belonging to a spring/fountain.”
• Period/Era: Patriarchal Period (Israel’s wilderness generation after the exodus)
• Main References: Numbers 16; Numbers 26:7–11; Deuteronomy 11:6
• Key Connections: Reubenite; son of Eliab; brother of Abiram; associated with Korah’s coalition against Moses and Aaron

Who was Dathan?

Dathan was a leader from the tribe of Reuben during Israel’s wilderness journey.
He joined a challenge to Moses’ leadership and Aaron’s priestly role.
His opposition is presented as part of a wider rebellion within the covenant community.
He is remembered primarily through the judgment that ended the revolt.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Refused Moses’ summons and accused him of leading Israel out “to kill us in the wilderness” (Numbers 16:12–14).
• Event 2: Stood with his household at the entrance of his tent as the rebels faced judgment (Numbers 16:27).
• Event 3: Perished when “the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them up” (Numbers 16:31–33).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Dathan’s story illustrates how organized resistance to Israel’s appointed leadership could bring communal crisis and decisive judgment.

Key Verse

"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." — Numbers 16:32, ESV