Parashat Korach 5783

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

Similar to last week’s Torah reading of Parashat Sh’lach, this week’s Torah Reading, Parashat Korach is also about knowing when to speak out, and not follow the crowd. Korach was truly a rabble rouser, protesting that he did not understand why his cousin Moses was the leader. Korach had many followers who were influenced by him, and many died as a result. Two weeks in a row, we see the importance of knowing that following the crowd can be very misleading and the wrong thing to do. However, from experience, many will know it is hard to be the voice speaking out against someone who is seen as a leader. Have you been in a situation similar to the spies and Korach? How have you handled it? When we all face situations of a ‘Korach’ may we have the strength and courage to speak out, and speak up.  Chazak v’Ematz – Be Strong and Courageous!