* Translated by Janine Muller Sherr
Yesterday, I received a message from an Israeli woman reflecting on this week’s parasha:
“Shalom Sivan. During these challenging days, I’d like to share an idea from this week’s parasha, Korach, that has given me strength.
In the parasha, Korach challenges Moshe’s leadership and causes great turmoil within the nation. Then, at the climax of the conflict, Moshe Rabbeinu addresses Korach. As it is written, 'He spoke to Korach and to all his company, saying, ‘Come morning, the Lord will make known who is His…'.
What is the significance of the word “morning” in this verse? Rashi brings two explanations, both of which are very relevant for our time:
* The first explanation is that Moshe is simply asking them to wait until morning. In essence he is telling Korach and his company what we often say today: Let’s talk about it tomorrow when you’ve had a chance to sleep on it. Often, during a dispute you need to allow time for cooler heads to prevail. Moshe Rabbeinu hopes the heightened passions will dissipate. Sometimes you just need time to reflect and take a deep breath. We too can benefit from some breathing space during these days.
* But Rashi adds a second explanation for the word, “morning”: Just as God created the world with morning and evening — light and darkness — so there are clear divisions in our world between good and evil, right and wrong. Korach cannot change the fundamental laws of creation or the divine order.
Similarly, we know that there is good and evil in the world and that we are on the side of the good. The conflict between good and evil continues, on all fronts, because this world is not lawless. Ultimately, with God’s help, the light will triumph over the darkness.”
