What does an ancient plant known for its medicinal properties have to do with a tent? One of the most famous verses in the entire Torah lies at the heart of this week's portion.
After a series of important events for Moses, Miriam, Aaron, and the whole community, the end of Parashat Chukat lists the Israelites' conquests during their journey. Sihon, king of the Amorites, does not allow the Israelites passage through his territory, so they go to war.
This week, as the Israelites continue wandering in the wilderness, Moses faces the most significant threat to his leadership since leaving Egypt. His distant cousin, Korach, gathers more than 250 individuals to challenge Moses and Aaron. The rest of Parashat Korach paints in vivid, violent detail the ways both God and Moses respond to the uprising.
At the start of Parashat Sh'lach L'cha, God tells Moses to send representatives from the 12 Israelite tribes to scout the Promised Land. With the exception of Caleb and Joshua, the scouts' report is far from promising.
Torah Commentary
Echoes of the Wilderness, Part VIII: The "Ka'eileh Phenomenon"
Echoes of the Wilderness, Part VII: How Goodly are Your Aloes
Echoes of the Wilderness, Part VI: The Original "Oy"
Echoes of the Wilderness, Part V: Feeling Scattered
Echoes of the Wilderness, Part IV: Better Think Twice