Who’s more Jewishly connected, you or your Bubby?
Who knows more Torah, me or Moshe?
Who is a greater ambassador for Jewish values, your synagogue president or one of Rambam’s disciples?
Who’s message is more important, the prophetess Devorah or the greatest political leader of modern times?
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In Jewish tradition, contrary to secular tradition, the closer we are to the origins of Judaism, the more authentic and wise we are. It’s no wonder that the Sages of the Talmud are given far more reverence than a modern-day professor of Talmud – and that’s exactly how it should be. Unlike science, which is merely the continuous discovery of new ideas and theories, Torah is about connecting to the Divine. If Torah is G-d-given, then the closer we are to the source, the more accurate and unadulterated is our perspective.
Yet, it is sometimes mind-boggling to consider this together with the reality that today we are privy to so much more knowledge and enlightenment. How is it possible that the greatest advances in human history can be physically, academically and technologically superior, yet spiritually inferior?
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In this week’s parsha Shemini (which we are studying for the third week in a row, thanks to Pesach!), we learn about the consecration of the Mishkan. For an entire week, Moshe served as the chief executive, officiating over the inaugural sacrifices. However, it was only on the eighth day, when his brother Aharon took over the reins of priesthood, that their mission was met with success and, “The glory of the L-rd appeared to all the people.”
Moshe commented to the Jewish people, “My brother Aaron is more worthy and important than I, insofar as through his offerings and his service the Shechinah will dwell among you.”
Why is it that Moshe was unable to cause G-d’s presence to dwell on earth, yet Aharon was capable of this feat?
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According to the Chassidic Masters, had Aharon tried to accomplish bringing G-d into the Mishkan without Moshe’s seven-day introduction, he would have failed. Yes, Aharon was greater in the sense that he was the one who clinched it. But, he wouldn’t have been able to do it without the assist from Moshe.
Moshe stood taller in stature and personal achievement. Aharon was greater in purpose and destiny.
Through Moshe’s gift of transmitting Torah and G-dliness to humanity, Aharon was able to uplift the world and create a holy space for G-d.
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Looking back at history, there have been many spiritual giants of Judaism.
We are like midgets standing on the shoulders of giants. Without them we could never reach our goal. And without us, their mission remains incomplete.
As we strive to make this world the place that G-d intended, a holy home for G-d, let’s remember that we will be the ones to usher in the era of Moshiach. Our ancestors have the advantage of accomplishments. We have the advantage of destiny.
It’s up to us to harness their achievements, clinch it and bring Moshiach now!