Beloved Friends,
Cathy and I have an anniversary tradition that focuses on experiences. For the last number of years this has involved attending a concert together in celebration of our wedding anniversary. This year we went to see the Rolling Stones at Soldier Field (sponsored by AARP!!!!) Still rocking, they featured many songs from their new album, Hackney Diamonds. I found myself particularly struck by their song “Why Are You Angry at Me.” The song’s themes of misunderstanding, conflict, and a search for resolution resonate deeply with the story of Korach in the Torah and with the current political turmoil in the United States.
In the Torah portion Korach, we find ourselves in the middle of a heated rebellion. Korach, a Levite who was already a leader with great responsibility, along with Dathan, Abiram, and 250 other leaders, decide they’ve had enough of Moses and Aaron calling all the shots. They challenge their authority, accusing them of being elitist and unfair. This whole situation feels oddly familiar when we think about the current political chaos in the United States, where disputes over leadership and power often mirror the drama of Korach’s rebellion.
Korach’s main beef is about who gets to be in charge and why. He argues that everyone in the community is holy and questions why Moses and Aaron should have all the power. This isn’t just a biblical issue; it’s a theme we see in today’s political scene. People are constantly debating who deserves to lead and whether those in power are truly representing the people or just serving their own interests. The Rolling Stones’ song “Why Are You Angry at Me” captures this sense of frustration and questioning, asking why there is anger and division, much like Korach’s challenge to the established leadership.
One of the key middot, spiritual attributes, that emerges from this narrative is humility (anavah). Moses exemplifies humility in his response to Korach’s challenge. Despite being accused and questioned, Moses falls on his face and turns to God for guidance. He doesn’t defend himself with arrogance or anger but with a humble heart. This humility is a crucial lesson for contemporary leaders, especially in the United States, where our political leaders struggle with the balance between confidence and humility. A leader who listens, remains open to critique, and acts with humility can foster a more inclusive and respectful political environment. Similarly, the Rolling Stones’ song urges us to reflect on the source of our anger and to approach conflicts with humility.
Respect (kavod) is a middah that also plays a significant role in Korach’s story. Korach and his followers fail to show respect for the divinely appointed roles of Moses and Aaron. This lack of respect leads to chaos and ultimately, disaster. In the current political landscape of the U.S., respect is in short supply. Political discourse has become increasingly polarized and disrespectful, with opponents frequently attacking each other’s character rather than engaging in constructive debate around issues. When we practice kavod, we can ensure that our political engagement is grounded in respect for differing opinions and the humanity of those with whom we disagree. The song “Why Are You Angry at Me” calls for understanding and respect, asking us to look beyond our anger and find common ground.
Unity (achdut) is perhaps the most vital middah highlighted in Korach’s rebellion. The division caused by Korach’s challenge threatens the unity of the Israelite community. Moses and Aaron’s role is to maintain this unity and lead the people toward their common goal. In the United States, political divisions have reached a point where the sense of national unity is in jeopardy. By focusing on achdut, leaders and citizens can work towards bridging divides and finding common ground, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The song’s plea to resolve anger and misunderstanding mirrors the need for unity in a divided society.
An equally important middah that surfaces in this portion is justice (tzedek). Korach’s rebellion is, at its core, a protest against perceived injustice. However, Korach’s approach is flawed because it is driven by self-interest rather than a genuine desire for justice. We need true tzedek, where the pursuit of justice is motivated by a sincere concern for the welfare of the community rather than personal gain. In our current political climate, the pursuit of justice must be guided by this principle, ensuring that policies and actions are genuinely aimed at benefiting all members of society, especially the marginalized and disadvantaged. The refrain “Why Are You Angry at Me” is a call to examine our true motivations and ensure they align with principles of justice.
Ultimately, the middah of responsibility (achrayut) is crucial in this context. Moses and Aaron’s acceptance of their roles and their accountability to the people and to God illustrate a deep sense of responsibility. This contrasts sharply with Korach’s irresponsible and divisive behavior. In our country’s political arena, embracing achrayut means that leaders and citizens alike must take responsibility for our actions and their impact on the broader community. It involves being accountable, making ethical choices, and contributing positively to the democratic process. The Rolling Stones’ question “Why Are You Angry at Me?” challenges us to own our actions and their consequences.
This week’s Torah portion, Korach, offers timeless lessons through the middot of Mussar that are so very relevant to our current political turmoil in the United States. When we embrace humility, respect, unity, justice, and responsibility, both leaders and citizens can navigate political challenges with integrity and wisdom. These middot provide a framework for fostering a healthier, more just, and united society, guiding us toward a more perfect union. And like the Rolling Stones’ song, these lessons ask us to reflect deeply on our emotions and the values we stand for, prompting us to move beyond anger and towards understanding and reconciliation.
Shabbat Shalom,
PS I hope that you will join Cathy and me as we welcome our new cantor, Lianna Mendelson to her first Temple Jeremiah Kabbalat Shabbat this Friday at 6:30 p.m.!