The Midrash Tehillim, an ancient collection of interpretations on the Book of Psalms, grapples with this very question. Specifically, it reflects on Psalm 26:5, "I hate the congregation of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked." It's a powerful statement. But what does it really mean?
The Midrash doesn't leave us hanging. It immediately asks: Which congregation are we talking about when we say "the congregation of evildoers?"
The answer it gives is striking: Korah.
Remember the story of Korah from the Book of Numbers? Korah, along with a group of rebels, challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron. They questioned their authority, sowing discord and division among the Israelites. As Numbers 16:19 tells us, "And Korah assembled all the congregation against them." That act of assembly, that pulling together for the wrong reasons, becomes the very definition of a negative congregation. It's a gathering built on dissent and rebellion.
And what’s the congregation we should aspire to?
The Midrash offers two examples of positive congregations. First, there's the one Moses assembled in Exodus 35:1: "And Moses assembled all the congregation of the children of Israel." This was a gathering for constructive purposes, for building the Mishkan, the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for God. It was a coming together to create something sacred. Then, the Midrash points to 1 Kings 8:1: "Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel." This was for the dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem, a moment of profound national and spiritual unity.
These congregations – Moses’ and Solomon’s – stand in stark contrast to Korah's. They represent unity, purpose, and a shared commitment to something greater than themselves.
The Midrash drives the point home with a final reference to the story of Korah. It reminds us of the warning in Numbers 16:26: "Depart now from the tents of these wicked men." The message is clear: distance yourself from those who promote wickedness and division. Don't sit with them. Don't give their ideas a platform. Don't let their negativity poison your own soul.
So, what does all this mean for us today? We live in a world filled with communities and congregations, both physical and virtual. Some are built on positive values, while others… well, others might resemble the congregation of Korah more than we'd like to admit.
The Midrash Tehillim challenges us to be mindful of the communities we choose to be a part of. Are they uplifting? Are they constructive? Or are they breeding grounds for negativity and dissent? It reminds us that we have a choice. We can choose to surround ourselves with those who inspire us to be better, or we can allow ourselves to be dragged down by those who seek to tear us apart.
Choosing wisely is not always easy, but it is always essential.