This Shabbat we will read about Korach, a member of the family of Moses, who was consumed with envy upon seeing that Aharon had been appointed as the Cohen Gadol (high priest).  Bitterness and resentment filled his heart, leading him to confront Moses in a fierce argument.  Not only that, Korach dedicated himself to spread discord among the people, challenging Moses`s authority.

With a cunning and deceptive narrative, he sought to discredit Moshe and Aharon, shaking the confidence of many.

What led Korach to want more than what he already had?

Human nature can be complex and sometimes dark.  We have all felt envy at some point, an insatiable desire to have what others have.  It may be a fancier car, a bigger house, or a seemingly easier life.  This envy, if left unchecked, can lead us down a destructive path, distancing us from who we are and our true value.

However, not all envy is destructive.  There is an envy that can be positive, one that drives us to be better.  When we see someone who is an example of life, someone whose actions and spiritual values inspire us, we should aspire to imitate those qualities.  This is a healthy and noble envy.  Not only is it not a sin, but it is a blessing.  The wise advise us to always look to our leaders and teachers to learn from their actions and spiritual values, elevating ourselves in the process.

The Torah tells us that jealousy of Moses`s power brought Korach and his followers to a terribly tragic end.  In a moment of unimaginable terror, the earth opened and swallowed them all, sealing their fate forever.  Let’s keep away from the Korach characteristic and keep ourselves away from other people who still follows Korach style.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Refael Cohen