1. The Aftermath of Korach’s Rebellion
In today’s portion, we continue reading about the aftermath of the rebellion of Korach. Hashem’s punishment is still unfolding, and we see the destruction that comes upon the Jewish people as a result of their continued complaints against Moshe Rabbeinu. Despite what happened with Korach, the people once again gather against Moshe, leading to another outbreak of divine wrath.2. Moshe’s Swift Response and the Power of Ketores
This time, Moshe acts swiftly. He instructs Aharon to take the ketores—incense—and place it in a pan, the machta, to atone for the community. Rashi explains that Moshe received this secret from the Malach Hamovos—the angel of death—when he was in the heavens: that ketores has the power to stop a magefa—a plague.3. The Scope of the Plague and Its Victims
The Torah tells us that 14,700 people died in this plague, in addition to those who perished with Korach. It is not specified exactly who these 14,700 were, but it is clear this was more than just Korach’s group. As Rashi notes, when the sotn—the adversary—is given permission to destroy, he does not distinguish and causes widespread devastation.4. The Dual Nature of Ketores: Destruction and Salvation
There was a perception among Bnei Yisrael that ketores brought harm: Nadav and Avihu were consumed by fire when bringing it, and 250 leaders perished offering it during Korach’s rebellion. Yet here, Hashem commands its use for salvation. This demonstrates that while ketores can be dangerous if misused or approached improperly, it also holds tremendous power for good when used as directed by Hashem.5. The Desire for Avodah and Its Consequences
The sons of Aharon and the 250 leaders sought an opportunity to perform this special service with the ketores. Their desire was genuine but misguided, leading to their deaths. As explained at the beginning of Parshas Acharei Mos—b’korvasam lifnei Hashem, “when they drew near before Hashem”—they were consumed by their yearning for closeness through this unique avodah.6. The Enduring Power and Symbolism of Ketores
Despite its dangers, we see again in our parsha that ketores, when used properly, brings protection and atonement for all Israel. On Yom Kippur as well, the cloud of ketores, known as Onan HaKetores, becomes central to achieving atonement and even symbolizes aspects of the Sukkah itself.7. Ketores Throughout Jewish History and Hope for Redemption
Throughout Jewish history, there have been many offerings—sometimes tragically in the form of Jews giving their lives al kiddush Hashem—for sanctifying Hashem’s name. In a sense, these sacrifices are likened to offerings of ketores. Ultimately, we await the coming of Mashiach and the rebuilding of the Beis HaMikdash so that we can fulfill the mitzvah of bringing ketores in its proper form once again for all Israel.8. Prayers for Redemption and Safety
May we merit soon to hear good news about redemption—geulah ha’mitis v’hashleimah, the true and complete redemption—and may all those who are in danger return home safely with Hashem’s help.