This week’s Torah portion, Korach, discusses a conflict between Moses and Aaron on the one hand, and Korach and his followers on the other. Korach claims that he and the others should share power with Moses. The rabbis teach that the difference between Moses and Korach is one of character. When Moses makes decisions, he does so because he sincerely wants to do what is right, l’shem shamayim. When Korach tries to do so, though, he is motivated only by his own power and gain. Even if his arguments have merit, they are tainted by his self-interest. This makes him unfit for leadership. At the point when his well-being conflicts with the community’s well-being, he will place himself first. Moses, on the other hand, consistently puts himself on the line in service of the community.