As the regular readers may know, that while primarily used for Torah thoughts and life lessons, I occasionally use this forum to share thoughts on societal issues, current events and the like. I have at times indulged in some ranting about one issue or another. Sometimes that exercise has resulted in some veiled or even overt criticism of individuals or groups who were, in my view, deserving of such.
Through the encouragement of a few friends I have become more conscious of the need for sensitivity in the manner in which an issue is presented. Further contemplation and research have revealed that there are times when more can be gained by not utilizing the opportunity to have these important issues addressed in this forum – before you - the august readership of these weekly musings.
We live in an era where sensationalist journalism is all the rage. Controversy drives ratings (or clicks). Calling someone out and firing up the base while riling up the opponent seems to be the way to go. Yet our own tradition teaches that taking the high road is nearly always the better path. As our sages put it, “own who wrestles with a dirty person will himself become dirty.” They further state, “just as it is a Mitzvah to speak up when one will be heard (listened to), so too is it a Mitzvah to remain silent when ones words will fall on deaf ears.”
So while there is much that requires attention and there are controversies that need to be addressed, I resist the urge to jump in on them. Instead my pen (or keyboard) will remain silent on those issues and instead I will leave you with a short Torah thought on dedication.
In this week’s Parsha, as Moshe prepares for his passing, he asks Hashem to appoint one of his sons to succeed him as leader – Rebbe of the Jewish people. Hashem denies his request and makes it very clear that his successor will not be his son but rather his closest disciple, Joshua. He further instructs him to give Joshua “semicha” – to ordain him as the next leader by placing his hand on Joshua’s head in front of the Jewish nation. The narrative concludes with Moshe placing both of his hands upon the head of Joshua thereby appointing him as the next Jewish leader.
Rashi points out that here we see Moshe’s generosity. Hashem instructed him to put his hand on Joshua’s head and Moshe generously places both hands – indicating a greater degree of spiritual power being imparted.
A lesser man might not be very gracious about this semicha upon finding out that the man supplanted his own son for whom he had ambitions. But not Moshe. His main concern was that the Jewish people are cared for. When Hashem demonstrates Joshua’s worthiness of the role, Moshe goes all out in imparting all that he can to ensure Joshua’s success as the new leader.
The lesson is clear. Dedication to the cause should be strong enough to help us overcome our petty or even noble wishes so that we do what needs to get done.
Mazel Tov to Emily Nykaza and Jon Lissauer upon the birth of their son. We look forward to celebrating with you this weekend.
Mazel Tov to Etai and Chanah Weizman upon the birth of their son.
Our heartfelt condolences to Jen Sachs and the Sachs family upon the passing of Ray Sachs. We admire your devotion to your father and how meaningful and special you made the last weeks of his life. May Hashem comfort you among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Good Shabbos
Rabbi Mendel Rivkin