This Shabbos we read Parshas Korach. The Torah describes to us the terrible incident of the rebellion made by Korach against Moses. Korach aroused many Jews against Moses. Included in those who rose against Moses were Dassan, Aviram, and Ohn ben Peles. Our Sages tell us that in the end, the wife of Ohn ben Peles saved the life of her husband. For what she did she is praised with the verse “Chochmas nashim bansa baisa” – “The wisdom of women builds their home” (Proverbs 14). What was this great wise insight that she shared with her husband? She told him, “Why do you mix into this rebellion? Either Moses will win, and Aaron will be the high priest. If not, then Korach will win, and he will be the high priest. Either way, you certainly won’t be the high priest.” When Ohn ben Peles heard these words, he agreed to her. However, he explained to her, there was still a problem. What will he say when they come to his house to get him? She told him not to worry, she would take care of it, which she proceeded to do.
At first glance this seems a little puzzling. Why is her statement to her husband considered so special? Isn’t what she said such an obvious statement of truth? Didn’t Ohn ben Pelesrealize this himself? Why should he get involved in an argument that he stands nothing to gain from?
Rav Chaim Shmulevitz explained, that here the Torah is teaching us a very great lesson here. When we respond to situations in the heat of the moment, we are apt to say or do things that are against all logic. Even though Ohn ben Peles himself knew that there was no point in getting involved in this rebellion, the emotions at the time the argument started didn’t allow him to think clearly. Only the clear vision of his wife kept him from making a foolish mistake, and saved his life.
The lesson is very clear to us. The next time we are in a situation involving an argument, don’t respond right away. How many times do we regret saying or doing something!! We must learn from the wife of Ohn ben Peles and wait before responding in the heat of things. Hopefully we then won’t have to live with the regrets of a foolish mistake made, or a relationship ruined.