Sunday, June 3, 2007

disposal of criticism

In last week's Torah reading, we find Moshe being criticized for his leadership in pursuing G-D's agenda. In each case Moshe did not respond to the criticism directly. He never wavered from the focus of his Mission , which was to bring Israel to the Land of the Patriarchs.
Yet the three criticisms differ in the quality of their critique and form continuous elevated level of attack.
1)They criticized Moshe's insensitivity to the burden he placed upon the people in acting out his
leadership. By moving them so quickly to enter Canaan, they were getting worn out. He seemed totally oblivious to their plight.
Thus the critique was how he led.
2) The second group criticized him for not anticipating their needs . They were not as used to the hardships of slavery , as they had been part of the ruling class of Egypt-they were the Erev Rav-Mixed Multitudes, who were accepted to accompany Israel on its' journey. They couldn't be expected to be satisfied with the Manna. Moshe should have seen to have their needs met as well!
Thus , this was a rebuke to Moshe as lacking the fundamental skills of a leader, who has the needs of his charges as his paramount duty. It was a critique of Moshe's character not just his insensitivity to the pain of others.
3) The last critique was levelled at Moshe the man, who had become self important, as well as arrogant.This was an affront not to how he thought of others but himself! Moshe was wrapped up in his own self-importance that he showed that he was greater than all other Prophets! For Moshe had become celibate after the giving of the Torah . This wasn't the usual procedure of prophets
before or after Moshe.
So in each case Moshe responded in concert with the critics. With regards to him being insensitive to the effect of his leadership, Moshe showed that despite the difficulty his directives brought,nonetheless the people relied upon his concern for them . For if not for his sincere prayers on their behalf they would have become consumed by G-D's Holy Fire.Thus Moshe showed that
in general he had their best interests at heart.
In the second case Moshe asks for assistance in dealing with the people's needs. He was ordered to set up a High Court who would serve as a body that would advocate the needs of the people.
In this way Moshe compensated for whatever limitation he had in not caring enough for their physical needs.In other words Moshe learned to care through the input of the Elders. Despite his limitations, Moshe learned to grow from them.
Finally the last critique that Moshe held himself to a higher standard was absolutely true! For Moshe was so instructed by G-D! Yet this was not a sign of haughtiness. Rather , Moshe was changed radically forever by what transpired at Sinai. He had become G-D's prophet for all future ages and for all people.
Look at Moshe's reactions and see1) when should one go around a problem-in this case critique;
2)when should one rise above the problem;here it was the frustration of the Erev Rav with Moshe not caring about them specifically.
Finally 3) when should the criticism become part of the solution-in this case he was higher therefore he held himself to a higher standard.
Our theme again very clearly, go around or go above or transform!

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