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Why does the Torah (תורה) use the phrase "es bateihem" when describing how the earth swallowed Korach's group? Onkelos reveals that there were two distinct divine punishments - one for the leaders of the rebellion and another for their households who actively supported them.
This shiur examines the precise language used in the Torah (תורה)'s description of Korach's punishment, focusing on the phrase "vativla osam ves bateihem" (it swallowed them and their houses). Rabbi Zweig notes that the Rishonim read the biblical text with extraordinary precision, and demonstrates this principle through a careful analysis of seemingly redundant language. The central question revolves around why the Torah uses the phrase "es bateihem" rather than "u'bateihem." The difference in grammar suggests two distinct actions rather than one unified punishment. If it were one swallowing that included their houses, the text should read "vativla osam u'bateihem" - indicating that their houses were swept up along with them as an appendage to their punishment.
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Why does Rashi mention the punishment of cherev (sword) for rejecting Torah when other violations carry more severe punishments? The shiur distinguishes between violating specific mitzvos and rejecting Hashem's fundamental authority established at Sinai. Complete denial of divine sovereignty constitutes mored b'malkus (rebellion against the king), which carries the unique punishment of cherev.
Parshas Korach 16:32
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