Korach, Ego, and War

Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash

This week’s Torah portion, Korach, opens with a rebellion. Korach and his followers challenge Moses and Aaron, saying:

“You have gone too far! For all the community are holy… Why then do you raise yourselves above God's congregation?” (Numbers 16:3)

While Korach speaks the language of justice and fairness, the rabbis teach us that his motives were rooted in ego. As Pirkei Avot 5:17 says:

“Any dispute that is for the sake of Heaven will endure; but one that is not for the sake of Heaven will not endure. What is an example of a dispute for the sake of Heaven? The disputes of Hillel and Shammai. And what is an example of one that is not for the sake of Heaven? The dispute of Korach and all his congregation.”

Korach’s rebellion was about power, prestige, and public recognition. This cautionary tale resonates in our own time, where ego continues to drive decision-making at the highest levels.

In a recent episode of The Daily podcast revealed how Trump’s decision to bomb Iran may have followed a similar pattern. Initially hesitant, he changed course after seeing media praise of Israel’s strikes. As the bombing was perceived as successful, Trump began taking credit, escalating his rhetoric to claim the spotlight.

We long for a world without war, but when leaders chase headlines instead of integrity, it is the people who pay the price.

Do we want leaders who serve, or those who seek the spotlight? The Torah warns us of what happens when ego is mistaken for leadership. The ground may not swallow them whole, but the consequences can be just as devastating.

Isaiah's vision still guides us: 'Nation shall not lift up sword against nation… neither shall they learn war anymore.' (Isaiah 2:4) May we rise above ego and violence in pursuit of something greater. May we choose leaders who seek peace, not praise.

Since I drafted this, a ceasefire has been established. May it hold. May this moment not simply mark a pause in violence, but the beginning of renewed moral clarity—and leadership guided by humility and restraint.