The Mishnah in Pirkei Avot teaches a principle that feels timeless in its clarity: “Every argument for the sake of Heaven will endure, and every argument not for the sake of Heaven will not endure.”

The Mishnah then gives two examples. A dispute for the sake of Heaven: Hillel and Shammai. A dispute not for the sake of Heaven: Korach and his assembly.

As you know, I like to leave sermons to the rabbis, but I cannot miss the opportunity to jump onto my soapbox for this week’s parsha, Korach. What’s the story with Korach, and how does he merit recognition in the Mishnah as the classic example of a dispute not for the sake of Heaven?

In this week’s parsha, Korach emerges as the instigator of a calculated uprising, rallying followers to undermine Moshe’s authority and sow discord within the nation. Korach does not approach Moshe with sincere questions, principled disagreement, or a desire to understand God’s will. Instead, he launches a personal attack—challenging Moshe’s integrity and disguising his ego as righteousness.

This is the essence of a dispute not for the sake of Heaven: an argument driven by self‑interest, jealousy, and the hunger for power. Korach’s rebellion is not about truth. It’s about winning.

Based on God’s response, it is quite evident how God feels about this. The punishment is dramatic and unique: the earth opens and swallows Korach and his followers alive.

Our Mishnah is as relevant today as ever. Korach’s rebellion teaches us that when conflict becomes personal, when disagreement becomes a weapon, when ego replaces purpose—the ground beneath us becomes unstable. Arguments should be driven by principle, not ego. We should engage with ideas, not attacks. Only arguments rooted in sincerity, humility, and a search for truth will endure.