Anger

Moses became very angry (Num. 16:15)
The commentator Rashi translates the above as: "He was very upset." Even when Moses was attacked by two trouble-makers he was upset rather than angry. Chasidim relate that Rabbi Menachem Mendel, the third Lubavitcher Rebbe, was extremely careful not to become angry. On one occasion he was nearly provoked to anger. He asked for the Code of Jewish Law, noting that the Talmud compares anger to idolatry. "I am close to an offense which is similar to idolatry," he declared, "I will see first if my anger is permitted according to Jewish Law." By the time he had examined the question there was no more need for an answer.

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And Korach gathered all the congregation against them (Num. 16:19)

When it comes to doing a mitzva (commandment), it isn't all that easy to find people who are interested. Unfortunately, however, when it comes to inciting controversy, everyone comes running.


(Mateh Aharon)