The Personalities of Moses and Korach provide an illuminating insight into
contrasting styles and qualities of leadership.
The rabbis describe Korach as having all the credentials of a born leader. The
Levitical family of Kehat, the proud bearers of the ark of the covenant,
provided him with an impeccable family background and this, allied to a keen
intellect and a persuasive tongue, enabled him to pose a real threat to the
leadership.
However, Korach’s rebellion was stillborn, for he betrayed himself and his cause
by the wild accusations he heaped on Moses. Burning jealousy and envy swept
honesty and integrity aside in a frenzy of slanderous attacks until truth was
stood on its head as he accused the “most humble of all men” of elevating
himself above all the congregation of the Lord.
Korach’s excursion into the arena of public life was nothing more than an ego
trip to self-fulfilment, showing a scant regard for the public good which he
claimed to defend. Set beside such a display of undisguised greed for power,
Moses’ conduct shines out as a beacon in the dark.
“And Moses rose up and went to Dathan and Abiram..” Casting aside the niceties
of protocol, the true leader initiated a dialogue with his accusers and pleaded
that they desist from their folly.
Moses demonstrated that the self-interest and pride of a leader must be
expendable in the face of the communal good. A leader who has his people’s
interest truly at heart will explore all avenues that may lead to peace and
harmony, whatever the cost in loss of face and dignity.
Mose, who had the mantle of leadership thrust upon him and wore it reluctantly,
demonstrated that communal office is a trusteeship to be executed on behalf of
others and not a vehicle for self-indulgence.
Is it perhaps a forlorn hope that the world leaders who wield the awesome power
of nuclear might may yet learn to espouse the ethics of the leadership of Moses?
Failure to do so may condemn us all to the fate of Korach.
