Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Purpose: Prayer for return, safety, unity._
• Dedications:
  • Natan Ben Zisel
  • Young man in Iran: Arvin Nanel Ben Sonaa
  • Other anonymous contributions
• Ongoing Situations: War, suffering, and life returning to normal for some._

Parashat Korach

• Historical Context:
  • Takes place after the spies' report and the ensuing decree of 40 years in the desert.
  • Many followed Korach due to seeing Moshe as a failed leader turned opportunity for rebellion.

Key Characters & Groups

• Korach: Argued for egalitarianism, but with a hidden agenda for power.
• On Ben Peleth: Saved by his wife's practical advice.
• Leader Types: Dathan, Abiram, Reubenites, 250 elders.
• Philosophy: Egalitarian arguments vs. hidden personal power agendas.

Hidden Agendas

• Korach’s Rebellion: Argued for equality but intended for personal gain.
• Moshe’s Response: Highlighted hidden motives rather than directly addressing Korach’s arguments.
• Outcome: Korach’s insincerity revealed, true motives were jealousy and ego.
• Wife’s Wisdom: On Ben Peleth’s wife dissuaded him practically. Korach’s wife fueled his rebellion.

Mishna Commentary

• Arguments “for the sake of Heaven” (shem shamayim): Last, impactful, vs. Korach’s for personal gain.
• Anarchy & Power: Moshe’s answer indicates internal conflicts and selfish motives among rebels.

Historical Revolution Analogy

• French Revolution: Replaced monarchy with more oppressive regimes.
• Communist Revolution: Lenin and Stalin worsened lives compared to the Tsar.
• Animal Farm: Allegory of power grab post-revolution leading to worse dictatorships.
• General Pattern: Egalitarian rhetoric often masks power grabs.

Kabbalistic Perspective

• Kohanim and Levi'im: Kohanim represent mercy, Levi’im represent judgment.
• God's Original Plan: Strict judgment (Midat Hadin) requiring mercy (Midat Harachamim) due to human imperfection.
• Gilgulim: Korach as Cain, Moshe as Abel; psychological and spiritual lessons.
• Future World: Levi’im becoming Kohanim; example of sweetened judgments (Gevurot).
• Korach’s Mistake: Misunderstood timing of Messianic Era; world not yet perfected for such a change.

Lessons from Korach's Story

• Timing & Patience: Cannot force future circumstances prematurely.
• Prayer & Initiative: Critical to reflect and act with thoughtful prayer.
• Korach's Legacy: Misjudged his moment in history, referencing Psalms by sons of Korach, repentance saved descendants.
• Complex People: Importance of balancing humility (Hevel) with initiative (Kayin).

Conclusion

• Tragedy in Arrogance: Korach had potential but destroyed by ego, like many historical and modern figures.
• Modern Implications: Ego and overconfidence also observed in today’s leaders and influencers.
• Key Message: Strive for humility coupled with initiative, balance in authority, and understanding proper timing in change.