share torah logo

Numbers 16:8 - Levi's sons: hear divine truth?

Numbers 16:8 - במדבר 16:8

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר מֹשֶׁה אֶל־קֹרַח שִׁמְעוּ־נָא בְּנֵי לֵוִי׃

English Translation

And Moshe said to Qoraĥ, Hear, I pray you, sons of Levi:

Transliteration

Vayomer Moshe el-Korach shimu-na bnei Levi.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֖ה אֶל־קֹ֑רַח שִׁמְעוּ־נָ֖א בְּנֵ֥י לֵוִֽי׃
וַיֹּ֥אמֶר מֹשֶׁ֖ה אֶל־קֹ֑רַח שִׁמְעוּ־נָ֖א בְּנֵ֥י לֵוִֽי׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Moses' Appeal to Korach and the Sons of Levi

The verse "וַיֹּאמֶר מֹשֶׁה אֶל־קֹרַח שִׁמְעוּ־נָא בְּנֵי לֵוִי" (Bamidbar 16:8) records Moshe's response to Korach's rebellion. Rashi explains that Moshe begins by addressing Korach and his followers as "בְּנֵי לֵוִי" (sons of Levi) to remind them of their distinguished lineage and the privileges they already possess as Levites. This was an attempt to dissuade them from their misguided pursuit of the Kehunah (priesthood), which was reserved for Aharon and his descendants.

The Significance of "שִׁמְעוּ־נָא"

The term "שִׁמְעוּ־נָא" ("Hear, I pray you") carries a tone of pleading. The Sforno notes that Moshe was not merely commanding them to listen but was making a heartfelt appeal for them to reconsider their actions. The word "נָא" (please) underscores Moshe's desire for peaceful resolution rather than confrontation.

Korach's Misguided Ambition

According to the Midrash Tanchuma, Korach's rebellion stemmed from jealousy and a misinterpretation of his role. As a Levite, he was already elevated above the rest of Israel, tasked with sacred service in the Mishkan. However, he sought the priesthood, which was not his to claim. Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 1:7) emphasizes that leadership roles in Judaism are divinely appointed, not subject to human ambition.

Lessons in Leadership and Humility

  • Respect for Divine Appointment: Moshe's words highlight that positions of holiness are determined by Hashem, not through rebellion or personal desire (Ramban).
  • The Danger of Envy: Korach's downfall teaches that discontent with one's divinely assigned role leads to destruction (Pirkei Avos 4:21).
  • Moshe's Humility: Despite being wronged, Moshe responds with patience and reason, modeling proper leadership (Talmud, Sanhedrin 110a).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sanhedrin 110a
The verse is referenced in the discussion about Korah's rebellion and the consequences of challenging Moses' authority.
📖 Eruvin 100a
The verse is cited in a broader discussion about the importance of heeding the words of the wise and the consequences of dissent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Moshe mean when he says 'Hear, I pray you, sons of Levi' to Korach?
A: Moshe is addressing Korach and his followers, reminding them that they are part of the tribe of Levi, who already have a special role serving in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that Moshe was trying to reason with them, pointing out that they were already elevated above the rest of Israel and didn't need to rebel for more honor.
Q: Why does Moshe specifically call Korach and his group 'sons of Levi'?
A: Moshe emphasizes their lineage as 'sons of Levi' to remind them of their existing sacred duties. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 18:3) teaches that Levi's descendants were chosen for service in the Mishkan, and Moshe was highlighting that they were already privileged—making their rebellion even more inappropriate.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Moshe's response to Korach?
A: Moshe's calm and logical response teaches us the importance of addressing conflict with wisdom and patience. The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 1:4) emphasizes resolving disputes peacefully, and Moshe models this by first trying to reason with Korach rather than reacting harshly.
Q: How does this verse apply to disagreements in Jewish communities today?
A: This verse reminds us that disputes should be handled with respect and clarity, especially when they involve leadership or communal roles. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 110a) warns against divisive behavior like Korach's, teaching that unity and humility—like Moshe's approach—are essential in resolving conflicts.