April 17, 2020 / 23 Nissan 5780 • Parshat Shemini
Issue 610
Dedicated in loving memory of Mrs. Miriam Friedman

SHEMINI

Respect for the Truth

Moses Heard [Aaron's explanation] and it pleased him.

Vayikra 10:20


When Moses heard Aaron's reasoning, he acknowledged that it made more sense than his own, admitting that he had not received any direct instructions from G-d in the matter.

The obvious lesson for us in this episode is never to be afraid to admit the truth, even if doing so may prove to be embarrassing. Moreover, we should admit the truth even if we might think that our social or religious standing obligates us not to. G-d Himself had appointed Moses as the transmitter of the Torah, and it was therefore paramount that the people trust his integrity. Moses was fully aware of this, and could have thought that admitting his own fallibility might compromise his authority as G-d's messenger. but he correctly realized that, on the contrary, demonstrating his readiness to bow before the truth would only enhance the people's respect for his message.

We, too, can be effective messengers of truth when we demonstrate that it means more to us than our esteem in the eyes of others.

From Kehot's

Daily Wisdom #2