We need Shabbat so much this week – as we have so often of late – and this week’s Torah portion is a challenge. It contains the story of Korach, the Levite who felt slighted by God and by Moses. The portion is difficult to read on many levels – it is a complex text with many problems for understanding and the end of it is emotionally charged for many of us. It is one of the most famous stories in Torah, and it has resonance for today, for sure.
Have I intrigued you? Parashat Korach is Numbers 16:1- 18:32. For some ideas about interpretation, here are some divrei Torah:
How Not To Have A Conversation by Rabbi Joseph A. Skloot
Praise the Contrary and Its Defenders by Sue Schwartz
Korach and the Un-Holiness of Racism by Dr. Shaiya Rothburg
Korach at the Wedding by Rabbi Ruth Adar
Korach, Privilege, and Striving for More by Rabbi Rachel Barenblat
Korach: the Brexit Challenge of its Day by Rabbi Sylvia Rothschild
Claims and Flames by Rabbi Amy Scheinerman
The whole world needs a break right now… so much pain and death this week, this month… We need to hit “pause” and find a more peaceful path forward, together…
It seems to me that anger is the issue of the day, EVERY DAY. When anger is the motive no one listens, everyone talks and little is accomplished. Add to that the ugliness that lingers long after the conversation ends because there was no communication between parties, only hurtful and hateful exchange. Add to that the violence we see on a daily basis…so very ugly.
Praying for a peaceful Shabbat. Shalom friends!