Beha’alotecha
Numbers 8:1–12:16

by Jen Smith, Guest Torah Blogger

In this week’s Torah portion, Beha’alotecha, we continue to unveil the secret behind the balance of achieving unparalleled greatness while also maintaining profound humility.

Is it possible for a human to fully embody humility while also being the best?  This paradox is present from the very beginning of Exodus and is a central theme perfectly embodied in the story of Moses.  In this week’s portion, Moses is reverently described as “Anav Mikol Adam” or, humbler than any other person. In our tradition, this description is timeless, transcending the past, present and future, even though our modern Jewish lens.

At the conclusion of the Torah, Moshe is adorned with the highest praises. He is extolled as the greatest of all prophets, the only man privileged with the ability to converse “Panim el Panim”, or face-to-face with God.

The Talmud (Masechet Sanhedrin) teaches us that when Adam was created, the universe and the cosmos existed solely for his sake. This profound concept lies in the unique quality of each individual soul, and we are reminded that we are made in God’s divine image, a profound statement like “Bishvilee Nivrah Ha’olam” or, this world was created for me. Such a statement might seem like arrogance unchecked, and yet, we are also reminded again and again to remember our innate Holiness – our own unique, God-given divine spark. We are called on to recognize and nurture the unique potential within.

We are taught to resist the temptation to think, “Kochi Ve’otzem Yadi, Asah Li et Hachayil Hazeh” or, it is my power, my might, and my ability that have achieved all my successes. Instead, our response should be, “Thank God, who has enabled me to achieve these things.”

The illustrious Rabbi Bunim of Peshischa, a Jewish Hassidic master of the 19th century, was legendarily known for carrying two pieces of paper in his pockets. On one, he inscribed the words, “Bishvilee Nivrah Ha’olam – This world was created for me.” On the other, he inscribed Abraham’s humble words to God, “Anochi Ve’Afar Va’Efer – I am but dust and ashes.” These two messages guided his life, reminding him simultaneously of his divine potential as well as his humble origins. Depending on the situation, Reb Peshischa took out the paper that best helped him become ever closer to God.

This balance was the secret to Moses’ greatness. Though he is remembered as the humblest man who has ever lived, once reminded, he was also acutely aware of his talents, abilities, and challenges. Throughout their journey, Moses continues to give all credit to God for enabling his extraordinary achievements on behalf of the Israelites.

Similarly, may we all learn to recognize our innate talents and divine potential bestowed upon us, always striving to leverage our gifts to make a profound impact on our community and the world. At the same time, may we always remember that our successes are not solely due to our own human greatness, but rather, they are made possible through listening and following the light of God’s divine spark within.

Shabbat Shalom.