Mishpetei HaRav Kook / Parashat Korach
„The world must recognize that a single utterance, a single described statement of faith alone, is not enough for a person to fly to the Garden of Eden.”From Shemonah Kevatzim VII, 45
Everyone agrees that in order to be a physician, a person must study the profession of medicine in depth. Everyone agrees that in order to be a teacher, a person must study education, to understand the soul of the child and its complexity. And just as this is true here, it is true also in the sacred realm. The statement placed in Korach's mouth — that "the entire congregation are all holy," and therefore "why do you raise yourselves above the assembly of the Lord" — is a statement whose aim is to hollow out the essentials of Judaism and its commandments. Indeed, all of Israel are holy. But alongside this, in order to lead and to expound the words of the Torah, one needs a foundation of deep study and many years of work in awe, love, and devotion — just as this is true in every profession.
Book Week is beginning, and the "Mishpetei HaRav Kook" books are available at the Yedioth Books sales stands. Those interested in meeting me at the stands — send me a private message and we'll arrange it.
From the community archive of Mishpetei HaRav Kook — studying Rav Kook's teachings since 2011.