1. Moshe Rabbeinu’s Relentless Efforts for Peace
In today’s portion in the Chumash, we see that even Moshe Rabbeinu finally reached his limit. Moshe Rabbeinu was trying very hard to find a way to appease Kayrakh, Dason, and Aviram. He did not want any makhloikis—conflict or strife—even though they were challenging him directly. He tried everything possible to figure out a way to make it work, seeking peace above all else.
At the end of yesterday’s portion, Moshe sent for Dason and Aviram, hoping that perhaps if they would come, there could be some dialogue and maybe a peaceful resolution could be achieved. However, they refused even this minimal gesture of coming to speak with Moshe Rabbeinu. Their response was not only a refusal but was delivered with arrogance and disrespect, totally rejecting any possibility of reconciliation.
2. The Disrespectful Response of Dason and Aviram
Dason and Aviram answered Moshe Rabbeinu by accusing him of taking them out of a land flowing with milk and honey—referring not to Eretz Yisrael as is usual, but to Egypt. They twisted the narrative, claiming that Egypt was the land of abundance and that Moshe had failed to deliver on his promises. They told Moshe Rabbeinu he was a farce, denying his authority entirely: “Who are you anyway to make us come to you? We are not coming.”
This is how they spoke after everything Moshe Rabbeinu had done for them. Their words reflected a complete lack of gratitude or recognition for all his efforts on their behalf.
3. Rashi’s Interpretation: Pain Rather Than Anger
The parashah describes Moshe’s reaction with the words Vayichar Moshe Moed. While one might translate this as “Moshe became very angry,” Rashi explains differently. Rashi says that Moshe was not simply angry at their defiance or disrespect; rather, he was deeply pained (adler moed) by the inability to find a solution to this crisis.
Moshe’s pain came from his sincere desire to bring about a good resolution and seeing that there was truly nobody willing to engage or even recognize what he had done for them. There was a total lack of appreciation or acknowledgment from Dason and Aviram.
4. Moshe’s Integrity and Selflessness
Moshe Rabbeinu turns to Hashem and says he has not even taken a donkey from them—not even the smallest thing that might have been due him as leader. He emphasizes that he never took anything from the people, even when it would have been justified. Despite this impeccable integrity, their response is utter rejection.
This highlights how sometimes people can be so entrenched in their opposition that no amount of honesty or selflessness can move them toward reconciliation or gratitude.
5. Parallels to Current Events: The Challenge of an Unappeasable Opponent
This situation echoes current events where we face opponents who cannot be appeased no matter what efforts are made. There is no common ground, no one willing to talk or recognize our efforts for peace—nothing but total rejection and hostility.
The world may offer plans or promises—such as American assurances of protection if we make concessions—but looking at situations in Iraq, Syria, and Israel itself shows how unreliable these guarantees can be. When there is truly nobody on the other side willing to engage in genuine dialogue or compromise, it becomes clear how difficult peace is under such circumstances.
6. The Jewish Response: Unity and Hope in Adversity
Despite these challenges, we see the Jewish people uniting in extraordinary ways during times of crisis—especially when working together to bring back those who have been taken captive or are in danger. Our ability as a people to act together gives us strength and hope.
If we were unable even to try rescuing our own—if we had no means at all—would anyone else truly help? The reality is that much of what happens globally is just talk without action when it comes to defending Jews against those who seek our harm.
7. Faith in Hashem and Practical Steps Forward
The Torah teaches us that as much as we desire peace and do everything within our power for it—we do not want war or violence—if there is no partner on the other side willing even for minimal recognition or respect, then true peace remains elusive.
Nevertheless, we remain hopeful and trusting in Hashem’s mercy. The unity (achdus) displayed by the Jewish people makes us strong beyond measure: when united, nobody can break us or touch us.
8. Prayers for Salvation and Redemption
We pray fervently that Hashem will return those who are missing safely home, speedily and peacefully by His grace. In the meantime, we continue our efforts: praying, giving tzedakah—charity—doing mitzvos—commandments—and beseeching Hashem for mercy upon all Israel.
May we merit soon to rejoice in salvation and freedom for all those in danger—bimheira veyameinu, immediately in our days! May tonight already bring good news: freedom and safety through Hashem’s kindness. Amen.