The answer is: They were swallowed up by the earth

Num 16:1-35

The story of Korah is one that carries a wild twist! Korah led a rebellion against Moses, fueled by the desire for elevated status within the Israelite community. It seems he wasn’t satisfied with the duties given to him as a Levite — he wanted more, specifically the high priesthood, which was a huge privilege held exclusively by Aaron and his descendants.

What’s most curious about this narrative is the dramatic conclusion. According to Numbers 16:32-33, when the ground split open, it was a vivid demonstration of divine judgment. It’s hard not to wonder how so many pressed upon these desires for power, making Korah’s fate a cautionary tale about stepping out of one’s divinely granted purpose. The imagery has painted Korah not merely as a rebel unhappily seeking spiritual promotion but more broadly as a symbol of human rivalry over divine roles.

Also, you may be intrigued by the echo of similar stories throughout the Bible, where the ground plays a direct role in showcasing justice or divine interception. Think of the dramatic moments when the earth can tremble, symbolizing a stark separation. This doesn’t just abound in Korah's case, but moments like earthquakes in the gospels at Jesus's crucifixion or Jonah's prophecy could lead one to carry forth this thread of profound symbolism throughout biblical tales. It creates quite the tapestry woven with threads of ambition, divine rightness, and the consequences of straying too far into one’s unurged desires.