This week’s Torah portion, Korach, tells yet another story of rebellion in the wilderness. After witnessing miracles, receiving the Torah at Sinai, and surviving other uprisings, one might expect the Israelites to have learned their lesson. Yet here we are again. This time, Korach challenges Moses’ and Aaron’s leadership, and the consequences are dramatic: the earth swallows the rebels whole.
It’s baffling. How could the Israelites keep defying the rules, especially when the outcomes are so terrifying?
It’s like watching children sneak cookies before dinner. They know what will happen: a scolding, maybe a revoked privilege, and still, they do it. We see this in grown-up life, too. A student scrolls through their phone during class, even though they’ll miss the point of the lesson. A driver texts behind the wheel, despite knowing the risks. A friend gossips, even after experiencing the fallout of broken trust. We know better, but we don’t always do better.
Why? Because rules alone don’t change behavior. We crave connection, purpose, and fairness. Sometimes, we act out when we feel excluded or unheard. Korach’s words, “All the people are holy,” weren’t just rebellion; they were a cry for recognition.
As we head into Shabbat, may we reflect on how we respond when we feel frustrated, left out, or misunderstood. Instead of acting out or turning away, can we find the courage to pause, to ask questions, and to seek understanding? Let’s strive to channel our passions into building community and connection, even when it feels easier to rebel or retreat.
Shabbat Shalom,
Danny Glassman