For the source text click/tap here: Sanhedrin 109
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The wife of On Son of Pelet is not mentioned in the Bible. However, the midrash credits her for saving her husband’s life. After she saw that he had joined Korah and his company, who were rebelling against Moses and Aaron, she discouraged him from joining the band of malcontents. She saw the long-term effects of her husband joining the revolt. She knew that if On were to fight and lose he would suffer, and if he were to fight and win it would not benefit him greatly. To stop him from joining the revolt she inebriates him and places herself in an immodest position to deter anyone from entering their tent. Her strong character allowed her to perform an “unbecoming” act to achieve a higher goal: rescuing her home and family.
We explore the Korach story and this devoted wife.