Torah portion
To Serve With Distinction
Korach's rebellion was based on his inability to appreciate the value of diversity and distinctiveness.
The Waters of Lustration: Tears and Tzedakah
Jewish sources suggest tears and tzedakah [charity] as two modern replacements for the Red Heifer.
An Imperfect Hero
Moses' fatal flaw is his inability to wean his people from their dependence on him.
Anger Management
God punished Korah for his inability to channel his anger into productive protest.
Institutionalizing Freedom
The combination of Moses' vision and Korach's organizing skills is an instructive model for successful coalition building.
Highest Standards
Because of his position of leadership, Moses is judged extremely harshly when he sins.
Seeing Their Faces But Not Their Doors
The Israelites' dwellings in the wilderness provide us with a model for ensuring the existence and dignity of housing for all members of society.
Selfish Revolution
Korach and his followers masked their quest for personal power and gain as a desire for an egalitarian, democratic society.
The Morning After
Following the deaths of Korach and his followers, Aaron stands between the Angel of Death and the Israelites.
Graced With Food
By blessing after we eat, we elevate the act of eating by connecting with God.