Learning

Search URJ.org and the other Reform websites:

 

You are here

Home / Learning / Torah Study

Korach

Torah Portions

Genesis
Exodus
Leviticus
Numbers
Deuteronomy
Holidays

Korach

Numbers
16:1−18:32

Now Korach, son of Izhar son of Kohath son of Levi, betook himself, along with Dathan and Abiram sons of Eliab, and On son of Peleth--decendants of Reuben--to rise up against Moses, ... - Numbers 16:1-2

Summary: 
  • Korach and his followers, Dathan and Abiram, lead a rebellion against the leadership of Moses and Aaron. God punishes the rebels by burying them and their families alive. Once again, God brings a plague on the people. (16:1-17:15)
  • The chief of each tribe deposits his staff inside the Tent of Meeting. Aaron's staff brings forth sprouts, produces blossoms, and bears almonds. (17:16-26)
  • The Kohanim and Levites are established and assigned the responsibility of managing the donations to the Sanctuary. All of the firstborn offerings shall go to the priests and all the tithes are designated for the Levites in return for the services they perform. (18:1-32)
Topics: 
Plague, Rebellion, Tithe

When do we read Korach?

2019 Jul 6
/3 Tammuz, 5779
2020 Jun 27
/5 Tammuz, 5780
2022 Jul 2
/3 Tammuz, 5782

RECENT COMMENTARY

Korach commentaries

  • Torah for Tots

    Included in the Book of Numbers is the story of Korach and his followers, Dathan and Abiran, who lead a revolt against Moses and Aaron.

  • Torah for Tweens

    Did you know there was a rebellion among the Israelites in the Torah? Explore Korach in this tween-friendly guide!

  • Torah for Teens

    In this parasha, Korach leads a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Listen and learn all about it!
Sign up for the Ten Minutes of Torah Emails
Jewish Holiday CalendarShabbatRosh HaShanahYom KippurSukkotSimchat TorahHanukkahTu Bishvat
PurimPassoverYom HaShoahYom HaZikaron & Yom HaAtzmaut Lag BaOmerShavuotTishah B'Av
Shabbat Services: Everything You Need to Know

Learn about  the Shabbat customs, traditions, and practices observed in synagogues and Jewish communities throughout the world.

Hanukkah Gift Guide: Social Justice Ideas

Inspiration for all your gift-giving needs - with an emphasis on tikkun olam, the repair of the world.

Arts & CultureFamily
Food and RecipesJewish Life Around the WorldCollege LifeJewish Camp
Chicken Soup Recipe

Keep this recipe for the iconic Jewish dish handy for your next Shabbat dinner.

The Gay Synagogue I Didn't Know I Needed

A rabbi shares his personal experience of finding his spiritual home.

Lifecycle & Rituals
Prayers & BlessingsWhat is Reform Judaism?Ask Your Jewish QuestionIntro to Congregational Life
The Blessing for Affixing a Mezuzah

Learn the blessing for placing a mezuzah on the doorposts of your house.

Recommended Resources for Learning More About Judaism

If you're curious about Judaism, thinking of converting, or know someone who is, here are some excellent resources to learn more about Judaism.

Torah StudyJudaism Classes
Sacred TextsPodcastsJewish Glossary
This Week's Torah Portion

Jacob lived in the land of Egypt for 17 years; Jacob's days--the years of his life--were 147. - Genesis 47:28

NEW! Online Judaism Classes

Want to explore Reform Judaism but have no in-person opportunities to study? This class is for you! Register now.

Israeli History
Israel Up ClosePeace and SecurityArts & Culture
The Struggle for Women's Equality in Israel Continues

Learn why Anat Hoffman fights for women's rights in Israeli society.

Loving Israel, Even When Its Government Rejects Me

Mattan loves his homeland while disagreeing with its government.

Search URJ.org and the other Reform websites:

WRJ Shop MRC

Miriam's Chamsa
Note Cards

The artwork on this note card was created by 5768 WRJ Art Calendar artist Césan d’Ornellas Levine.

$7.50/pack

Bring it Home
WRJ Bag

Show your WRJ pride with this zippered canvas bag. Features the phrase "Well-behaved women rarely make history" and the WRJ logo.

$18 $15

Bring it Home