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Why does the Torah (תורה) begin Parshas Korach with "Vayikach" (he took) without stating what was taken? The shiur explores Rashi (רש"י)'s interpretation that Korach separated himself first, then made arguments against Moshe's leadership. This pathology reveals why Chazal called it machloket she'lo l'shem shamayim - the rebellion preceded any legitimate grievances.
Rabbi Zweig begins by analyzing the unusual grammar of the opening verse "Vayikach Korach," noting that the Torah (תורה) uses a singular verb for multiple actors and fails to specify what was taken. According to Rashi (רש"י), "Vayikach" means Korach took himself to one side - he separated and seceded from the community before raising any complaints about the kehuna. This sequence is critical: the Torah deliberately presents the separation first, followed by the arguments against Moshe's authority. This pathology reveals the true nature of machloket she'lo l'shem shamayim. Rather than engaging in legitimate discussion that might lead to separation if unresolved, Korach reversed the process. He decided on rebellion first, then manufactured justifications afterward. The shiur suggests that Korach's justification may have been Moshe's perceived failure in the incident of the Meraglim, positioning this as evidence that Moshe's leadership was compromised by self-interest rather than concern for the Jewish people.
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Parshas Korach 16:1
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