Against their own souls, i.e. their own lives; who were the authors of their own death and destruction. Compare 1 Kings 2:23 Proverbs 20:2. This he saith for the vindication of God's justice and his own ministry in this severe dispensation. The altar, to wit, of burnt-offerings, which was made of wood, but covered with brass before this time, Exodus 27:1,2, to which this other covering was added for further ornament and security against the fire, which was continually burning upon it. A sign; a monument or warning to all strangers to take heed of invading the priesthood, as it follows, Numbers 16:40.
Related Commentaries of Numbers 16:38
Numbers 16:38
38 The censers of these sinners against their own souls, let them make them broad plates for a covering of the altar: for they offered them before the LORD, therefore they are hallowed: and they shall be a sign unto the children of Israel.