אור החיים — ויקם משה וילך אל דתן ואבירם

Q — In the Korach dispute, why does the verse repeat Moshe's name — 'Moshe sent to call Datan and Aviram' — when the context already makes clear who sent?

A — Or HaChaim explains that Moshe acted toward the rebels with deliberate honor, hoping that 'through the importance he accords them by addressing them out of the entire assembly, their hearts would soften to lend an ear.' The verse stresses 'Moshe sent' precisely to highlight the sender's stature: Moshe, king of Israel and prophet of God, lowering himself to summon two commoners (הדיוטות) — perhaps this gesture of respect would move them to reconsider and heed him. Even toward those waging a destructive machloket, Moshe extended dignity in pursuit of peace.