This week’s Torah portion, Korach, describes a very disturbing incident in which Korach challenges Moses’ leadership of the Israelite people. His challenge is met with punishment from God, as Korach and his followers are swallowed up by the earth (which, incidentally, may be the first recorded instance of a sinkhole!)
A closer reading of the text indicates that while Moses may have heard what Korach was saying, he wasn’t listening to Korach’s concerns. Moses simply instructs Korach with what he should do so that God could determine the rightful leader of the Israelites.
There’s an important lesson to be learned here: hearing is one thing, but truly listening is something else entirely. When we listen to what another person has to say, with intent and with focus, we have a better chance of understanding his or her perspective. Had Moses been able to listen to Korach and to engage in a constructive dialogue, perhaps the tragic ending for Korach and his followers could have been avoided.
And the lesson for us? Be a good listener. Be empathetic. Be understanding. And be a better person for it.