From The Rabbi’s Study…July 5,6,2024/29 Sivan, Rosh Chodesh Tammuz 5784
Torah: Korah (Numbers 16:1-18:32)
Happy 4th of July to everyone!
The Torah continues with the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, Abiram,and On. Then the destruction of the rebels, and vindication of Aaron. There were additional rules pertaining to the Levites, and the priestly tithes and tithes for the support of the Levites (Levites took care of the tabernacle).
Challenging one’s parents’ authority is not the same as challenging the authority of a leader. After the frightening report from the twelve scouts/spies of the land of Canaan, Korah begins an uprising. Korah took advantage of the despairing Israelites and the timing was opportune time to spur a revolt. Whose authority was he challenging? It was Moses! Korah wanted the priesthood. Who was the Kohain Hagadol/High Priest? It was Aaron (Moses’ older brother)! The other part of the revolt (two factions rebelling) were led by Dathan, Abiram, and On. These groups were accusing Moses of promising the Land was flowing with Milk and Honey, but instead would expose everyone to death in the desert. Both Korah and the others were intent on stirring a revolt against Moses’ leadership. Ultimately, G-d created another miracle, an earthquake that swallowed up all the people that revolted.
The Haftarah has Samuel the last and greatest of the judges. Samuel had the task to rebuild the Jewish nation that was in ruin. He was a brilliant judge that was competent in uniting the Israelite tribes during his leadership. Samuel was getting old, and the Israelites wanted a king just like their non Jewish neighbors. Samuel asked G-d to help him in appointing a king. G-d told Samuel that Saul was the one who would be anointed the first king of Israel. Both stories show the ingratitude of the Israelites toward its leaders.
Throughout the millennia many individuals rise up. There will always be contemporary Korachs who try to collapse authority. Leaders must be prepared to experience protests among their constituents. Leaders should be competent and capable of carrying out everything pertaining to protecting and enhancing the growth of their country and people. Even a great leader will call on G-d for assistance from time to time. Don’t we sometimes call or pray to G-d for guidance? He is always with each of us, and He Hears our prayers. If you need me to recite a misheberach, please let me.
Shabbat Shalom v’ Am Ysrael Chai,
Rabbi Helene Ainbinder
