This week we read about Parshat Korach, Moses’ Levite cousin who leads a deeply threatening rebellion against the leadership of Moses and Aaron.
This week we read about Parshat Korach, Moses’ Levite cousin who leads a deeply threatening rebellion against the leadership of Moses and Aaron.
But before commenting on the Parsha, I need to bring to your attention that our June Appeal is not going as well as expected. While we are so grateful for the support of many of you, we are dangerously behind in reaching our goal. Could it be that inflation is part of the reason? Other needs? More of our members and friends on limited income?
We may need to lower our expectations. Perhaps a goal of $40,000 is too high. We have reached it before. With our new center we certainly have more expenses until we find a buyer for Sanctuary. On that front, there is serious discussion going on about a partnership with other Jewish organizations to acquire the property. But that will take time.
Our new center is already having a positive impact on the community. I’m still in need of someone to help me manage the needs of our community and support our mission.The search continues.
Please note the Trees of Life Memorial below. We have re-installed them at the new center! Please consider honoring or remembering a loved one. The bronze leaves are $500, the silver leaves are $1000. Later this summer we will dedicate the Atzey Chayim once again.
Back to Korach. While it appears that Korach was challenging the leadership of Moses and Aaron, we need to note the limited support he had from the people. He also did not show evidence of his relationship with God. Moses tries several times to temper the actions of the rebels. We must also note that Korach does not lay out a plan for the future. He has no vision. The fact the his name means “frozen” can be understood as a reflection of his consciousness. The rebellion fails. What are the lessons for us today?
Tragically, we see too clearly how leadership that comes from jealousy, the hunger for power, that lacks vision and morality threatens our country and peoples elsewhere in the world.
Korach, his family and supporters, are swallowed up by the earth like a plant that dies when the frost hits and is “swallowed up” by the earth. His descendants, though, like perennials, emerge through the great prophet and judge Samuel, as well as a few of the authors and choral directors of the Psalms!
May our staffs sprout almond blossoms like the staff of Aaron! (Numbers 17:8)
Reb David