Close To Torah

Korach’s son once again composed this psalm. The opening verse states that they sang the song over “alamos, a hidden matter.” Commentators explain that this was a type of instrument. Others explain that it refers to their father Korach who was swallowed into the ground and disappeared (alam, hidden) before their very eyes. They almost went down with him but because of their repentance were saved at the last minute. This psalm makes references to other historical events where Hashem saved individuals or His nation from almost certain death. Understanding God’s ways is hidden (alam) as well. Indeed, the word that means ‘world’ is none other than ‘olam’ which draws its root from the word alam, hidden. This signifies that much of life is truly mysterious and unexplainable, but God’s Hand is ever present and discernable for those whom are seeking to see truth.

Names

The Talmud (Berachos 6a) learns out from verse 6 that one can study the name of a person or object and learn great lessons from that. For example, Rus was named so based on the fact that her great-grandson, King David would “rivahu= rus= sate,” saturate God with praises. Yehuda, David’s great great-grandfather was named so because his name contained the four letter name of God (Yud-Hey-Vav-Hey) plus the letter Daled, which stood for David, his great descendant.

Depth

The psalmist challenges us to look deeper into life and into the significance of things around us. The hidden source of all things is God Himself and His guidance throughout the world. When one looks into his or her own name there is much to learn about who we are and what strengths we possess. The sons of Korach were named: Assir, Elkanah and Aviassaf. Their names signify their life experiences. Asir means locked up, they felt trapped by their father’s rebellion. Elkanah hints to God’s zealous punishment for those who rebelled against Him. Aviassaf means, “my father perished,” referring to Korach’s untimely demise. But there is a deeper meaning of Aviassaf which represents the ultimate end event in their lives. “My father drew me in,” this refers to the fact that God allowed them to repent and to receive forgiveness for their sins. Each name contains great depth and lessons that can be drawn out.

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