Parshas Va'eira- Advice For The Leader

The Torah is our ultimate source of wisdom. Its stories are not merely our history, but rather an indispensable guide to shape our perspectives and behaviors today. Every detail that is recorded captures innumerable, practical messages. This week’s Parsha illustrates a directive on offering advice and becoming a leader.   

Last week’s Parsha concluded on a somewhat negative note. Moshe, having been instructed to gather the elders of Israel and speak to Pharaoh, was left sorely disappointed. The elders were too afraid to follow Moshe when he approached Pharaoh (Rashi 5:1). Pharaoh disregarded the commands of Hashem, and increased the labor of the Jewish people. The Jews complained against Moshe, citing that his efforts only deteriorated their already difficult situation. Moshe turned to Hashem, highlighting the failure that was his opening move. He declared that he had only made it worse for the Jews.

In Va’eira, Hashem responds. He retorts to Moshe’s argument of his inability to succeed in the mission with “vayitzavaym el b’nei Yisrael, v’el Paroh melech Mitzrayim…” (6:13). Rashi explains that Hashem was instructing Moshe to have patience with the Jews, and speak respectfully with the king of Egypt. Despite the struggle, Moshe and Aharon needed to deal with these two entities appropriately.

The placement of these directives is difficult to understand. Hashem could have told Moshe the importance of these sensitivities in the opening instruction, at the burning bush (Parshas Shemos). Why did Hashem wait till now to tell Moshe this information?

The pesukim proceed to illustrate the “yichus” of Moshe Rabbeinu. The first three tribes are listed, and Moshe is recorded as a descendant of Levi. Rashi (6:14) explains that since the Torah wanted to emphasize the backstory of Moshe (from Levi), it began with Reuvein and Shimon as well. 

It would appear that the necessity of this information is tied to the new leadership. In order to appreciate the role of Moshe, we must be told of his credentials. His position is enforced with his important resume.

However, this too appears to be out of place. Moshe is initially introduced in Shemos, at the burning bush. He accepts the role of the “redeemer” at that event. Why is his backstory delayed until this later conversation? Wouldn't it have been more fitting to cite this earlier?

While it is important to be aware of a new reality one is entering, too much information could be detrimental. To illustrate: a person who is soon to be married could learn excessively about the sensitivities in marriage and appropriate conduct, and enter matrimony thinking that he is impervious to conflict or challenge. He will be sorely disappointed to find out that information that may be mastered in theory, is entirely different in application. When the stresses and difficulties of married life materialize, our brilliant friend can be left feeling very negatively. Perhaps the more ideal approach is to study the general, and necessary ideas for a successful marriage, and enter the new stage with the knowledge that one has a mentor, with whom he can consult to resolve future challenges. The instructions during the difficulty become practical, applicable advice, that is then absorbed and used to improve the situation. Thus, the directive is far more effective when it is practical, and therefore able to be absorbed. 

In Shemos, Moshe accepted the role of the leader. He had not yet felt the challenges of leadership in dealing with a difficult people, and the struggle of international relations.This is not the ideal time for Hashem to instruct Moshe about these ideas, as the ability to genuinely connect with them is limited by lack of experience. However, after Moshe returns to Hashem and decries his “failure” and asks for direction, the opportunity is revealed. Now, Hashem directs Moshe regarding the sensitivities about the struggle of which Moshe is entirely aware. Patience and respect with these challenging people is the appropriate approach. This information is now able to be integrated in a real, practical way.

Moshe accepts the words of direction, and chooses to persevere with the mission. This is the mark of real leadership. The initial acceptance in Shemos was one without the experiences of the hardships involved. Now Moshe knows these challenges intimately, and nonetheless decides to continue with the plan. Hence, now Moshe’s leadership begins, and his resume is presented accordingly. 

Two ideas emerge. Firstly, instruction, particularly to people we deeply care about, is integral. However, giving these directives when out of place, can be greatly ineffective, and potentially harmful. In contrast, when the opportunity presents itself, the right instruction is invaluable. Secondly, the mark of a true leader is perseverance with the mission, despite the pushback. It is easy to lead when things are not difficult, and the challenges distinguish the great leaders from the rest. 

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