Parashat Korach: Miracles & Teshuva

In memory of R' Tzvi Ben Moshe Yitzchak (Mr. Dejonjh)

Finding Gratitude Amid Open Miracles

In recent days, we have witnessed open miracles (nissim geluyim) in Eretz Yisrael. While the threats were real and the destruction heartbreaking, the scope of what could have happened was far greater than what actually occurred. In moments like these, we must pause and reflect. As the Ramban teaches, miracles are not merely events to observe—they are invitations to change.

The question isn’t just “What happened?” but rather, “What does Hashem want from me?” How can I bring more light into the world? What small mitzvah can I take on to express my deep gratitude for Hashem’s infinite chesed?

The Tragedy of Korach: When Greatness Becomes Self-Destruction

Parashat Korach confronts us with the painful reality of how spiritual potential can be tragically misused. Korach wasn’t a minor character. He was clever, wealthy, from a noble lineage, and honored with the task of carrying the Aron HaKodesh. Chazal teach us that he had greatness within him—so what went wrong?

The answer lies in a single, destructive trait: jealousy.

Korach cloaked his rebellion in righteous rhetoric, but at its core was a hunger for power and recognition. He exploited the dissatisfaction of others, notably the tribe of Reuven, who had lost their firstborn privileges after the sin of the Golden Calf. Korach masterfully unified their complaints under a banner of rebellion—but it was all self-serving.

This is why the Torah calls it Machloket Korach, not a dispute against Moshe or Aharon, but one centered around Korach himself.

Undermining Torah: The Mockery of Mitzvot

Korach didn’t attack directly—he mocked. He told stories that twisted halachah into oppression, such as the widow burdened by tithes. He challenged mitzvot like tzitzit and mezuzah, asking:“If my garment is entirely techelet, why do I need one more string?”“If my house has Sifrei Torah, why need a mezuzah?”

His argument? "Kol ha'eida kulam kedoshim – We are all holy!"Korach claimed we no longer needed kohanim, mitzvot, or safeguards. But he misunderstood a core truth: holiness is not a state—it is a pursuit.

True Holiness: A Journey of Striving

When Hashem brought us to Har Sinai, He declared, "Atem tihiyu li mamlechet kohanim v’goy kadosh"—you shall become a holy nation.

We are not born perfect. We must strive. Mitzvot like tzitzit and mezuzah help us remember who we want to become. Korach, tragically, was misled by a vision of his descendant, Shmuel HaNavi. He assumed that future greatness meant he himself was beyond reproach. But he failed to see that Shmuel’s greatness came from teshuva—not arrogance.

Spiritual DNA: Inherited Gifts, Personal Responsibility

Rashi notes that Yaakov Avinu’s name is omitted from Korach’s lineage. Why? Because Yaakov prayed that his name not be associated with such divisiveness. He foresaw the power within the tribe of Levi—azut d’kedusha (holy boldness)—but warned that without humility and proper guidance, it could lead to disaster.

Each of us carries spiritual DNA. We inherit the chesed of Avraham, the strength of Yitzchak, the perseverance of Yaakov. But heritage is not destiny. Our choices shape our future.

Rays of Redemption: The Power of Teshuva

Even in Korach’s dark rebellion, we find sparks of hope:

• On ben Pelet’s wife: With insight and courage, she saved her husband from destruction. She recognized that his participation brought him no gain, and took action to pull him out—literally and spiritually.

• The sons of Korach: In a moment of clarity, they broke away and honored Moshe. Their teshuva was accepted, and later generations sang their praises in the Beit HaMikdash through Tehillim.

• The copper pans of the 250 men: Though their act was misguided, Hashem honored their sincerity. Their offerings were preserved and transformed into a protective fence around the Mizbe’ach, symbolizing that pure intentions—when redirected—can still elevate.

Staying Within the Boundaries of Torah

Parashat Korach reminds us that spiritual ambition, when untethered from Torah and humility, leads to ruin. Korach’s downfall wasn’t in his desire for holiness—but in bypassing the process that the Torah outlines.

In contrast, disputes that are l’shem Shamayim, like those between Hillel and Shammai, endure. When arguments stem from sincerity, respect, and a desire to uncover truth, they build, not destroy.

One modern story encapsulates this idea: A paramedic once saved the life of his former Rebbe—the same Rebbe who told him he'd amount to nothing. But it was precisely the patience he cultivated in response to that harsh critique that enabled him to stay calm and act quickly in a life-or-death moment. What was once a source of pain became a vessel for redemption.

Final Thoughts: Let the Miracles Inspire You

We are living in times of revealed miracles and hidden opportunities. Let’s not wait for the ground to open beneath us to examine our path. Instead, let us use the inspiration of Korach’s cautionary tale—and the hope woven into it—to reflect, to realign, and to recommit.

May we see continued yeshuot, nechamot, and miracles—both hidden and revealed.

Wishing you a meaningful, peaceful, and inspiring Shabbat.

With all my love from Yerushalayim.