The Art of the Theme: Korah

You have so much! Because all of the congregation, all of them, are holy, and the Lord is among them. And why do you raise yourselves over the Lord’s community?”

Korah speaking to Moses and Aaron

Numbers 16:3

Social hierarchy is not exclusive to humans. The animal kingdom has a variety of species that are not only organized but also have established leadership positions. Like humans, the animal kingdom has leadership challenges. Primates can employ aggression and politicking as means of maintaining or gaining power. Thus, it is to no surprise that the Torah-a book of instruction and nation building- would include leadership lessons. Many of these lessons, however, are not words of wisdom but rather showcased in stories.

The Torah Portion Korah offers readers a ringside view to a ground shaking Israelite leadership challenge. Korah, a Levite tribe member, seeks power.

Leadership as a Theme

Before addressing Korah, we must appreciate the Torah’s ongoing leadership theme. Scripture serves as an organizational-leadership textbook. In Torah Portion preceding Korah, Shelach touched on the theme of failed leadership. Most of the Twelve Spies, Tribal Chieftains, failed in their ability to lead due to their lack of courage. In the episode, only Joshua and Caleb emerged from the mission as individuals possessing the “right stuff.”

The Portion Korah deals with a different leadership aspect-a challenge to the status quo. The one tribe absent from the failed Promised Land spy mission, the Levites, present as this problem. Korah’s arrogance and ambition are the driving forces for this showdown.

The OT Showdown

In the Torah Portion, Moses and Aaron is confronted by Korah, a Levite. Korah and his followers make demands for power which include participation in the cult at a priestly capacity.

The Torah records interactions within the dispute. At one point, the following discourse occurs: “And Moses said to Korah, “Listen, sons of Levi, is it too small a thing for you that Israel’s God has distinguished you from the congregation of Israel to bring you close to him, to do the work of the Lord’s Tabernacle and to stand in front of the congregation to minister for them, and that He brought you and all of your brothers, the sons of Levi, with you close to Him? And you seek priesthood as well?! Therefore you and all your congregation who are gathering are against the Lord! And Aaron, what is he that you complain against him?” Numbers 16: 9-11.

Eventually, the conflict resolved in the most biblical of fashion. “The ground that was under them (Korah and supporters) was broken up, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them and their households, and all the people who were with Korah and all the property.” Numbers 16: 31:32. (Note: Sinkholes are also a natural phenomena.)

In sum, the rebellion literally fell through the cracks. Apparently, some large ones.

The Lessons

In this instance, power was coveted by Korah. This jealousy differs from the Coveting Commandment as it deal with both people and possessions. Moses and Aaron had what Korah desired. In his quest, he disregarded the fact that the two had been tasked by the Lord.

Korah’s reality is that he had many emotions at play. Ambition, jealously and self-satisfaction needed to be reconciled. Moving forward, he needed to address his true realities. He was never going to be either Aaron or Moses.

In taking an inventory, he would have appreciated his assigned status. He was limited as far as his reach. A modern example of this is the United States Presidency. Age and a natural born citizen requirement limit those who can reach the goal. With an appreciation of one’s limitations, there is the opportunity to re-shape goals. Leadership and power can come in many ways.

Korah’s methodology was poor. Arrogance and self-righteousness did not play well for Korah in front of well-established leaders. I find this at times when I have employees asking for raises. Some workers just demand a raise. The wise ones, however, explain why they are deserving. With that, a wise leader knows that they should embrace wise thoughts.

In essence, Korah’s energies would have been more appropriately directed towards other goals. He could have sought to be a well-respected Levite. He could have found this to be both admirable and satisfying. Instead, he quelled on something that was something beyond his powers. He literally dug his own hole.

Conclusion

In sum, Korah presents as another leadership masterclass. The lesson was for those seeking advancement. One needs to make a comprehensive assessment as to one’s goals. In moments in which the goal is unattainable, one must explore satisfying alternatives.

As things often happen in threes, however, the Torah’s final leadership lesson will be coming.

Be well!!

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