Leadership in Unexpected Places

"standing up for what is just"

Parashat Pinchas provides several examples of leadership that are relevant and timeless. These are leadership qualities that we can emulate for personal growth. The first example of leadership is the daughters of Tzelafchad, Mahlah, Noa, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They challenge the inheritance law and bring their case before Moshe, Eleazar the priest, the chieftains, and the entire assembly of B’nei Israel. They argued that their father died without leaving any sons, and according to the existing inheritance laws, their family would lose their portion in the land of Israel. Instead of accepting the status quo, they challenged the law and questioned its fairness.

The daughters of Tzelafchad showed great unity and solidarity in their cause. All five sisters joined together to present their case to the leaders of B’nei Israel. Their collective effort demonstrated their determination and strength as a group. They were able to effectively communicate their message and make a compelling argument because they were united in their cause.

The daughters of Tzelafchad presented their case in a clear and articulate manner. They explained their situation, highlighting the fact that their father had not participated in Korah’s rebellion and died for his own sin. They also emphasized the importance of their family’s name and legacy, stating that if they were denied an inheritance, their father’s name would be forgotten among the Israelites. Their ability to express their concerns and aspirations effectively played a significant role in their success.

The sisters showed perseverance. When Moshe initially heard their case, he was unsure how to address their request. He took their matter before HaShem, and HaShem confirmed that the daughters of Tzelafchad were indeed correct. They had the right to inherit their father’s portion of the land. Despite the initial uncertainty and delay, the sisters remained persistent in pursuing justice and did not give up until their cause was acknowledged and resolved.

In addition, the daughters of Tzelafchad’s case resulted in a change in the law. Their successful plea for inheritance rights set a precedent for inheritance laws. From that point on, if a man died without leaving any sons, his daughters were entitled to inherit his portion of the land. This legal precedent ensured that women had the opportunity to receive an inheritance and maintain their family’s land rights.

The leadership demonstrated by the daughters of Tzelafchad serves as an inspiration for standing up for what is just and challenging the status quo when necessary.

This parashah also offers us an example of transitional leadership from Moshe to Yehoshua. Moshe, who led the Israelites out of Egypt and served as their leader throughout their wilderness journey, is informed by HaShem that he will not enter the Promised Land due to striking a rock instead of speaking to it to bring forth water. Thus, Moshe is aware that his time as the leader of the Israelites is coming to an end.

In Bamidbar (Numbers) 27:15-23, Moshe appeals to HaShem, asking HaShem to appoint a successor so that the community will not be left without a leader. HaShem instructs Moshe to lay his hand on Yehoshua, one of his trusted assistants, in the presence of the entire congregation. Through this act, Moshe transfers his authority and leadership to Yehoshua, symbolizing the continuity of leadership within the Israelite community.

Parashat Pinchas stresses the importance of continuity in leadership and the seamless transfer of power from one generation to the next. The Israelites had relied on Moshe for guidance and direction for many years, and now they had to accept Yehoshua as their new leader, trusting that HaShem’s presence would remain with him.

This transition from Moshe to Yehoshua marked a significant moment in the history of the Israelites, as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. Yehoshua would go on to lead the Israelites in conquering the land and settling in their new homeland, fulfilling the promise made to Avraham, Yitzhak, and Yaakov.

And finally, we learn about unselfish leadership from Pinchas; he was a man of action, a man who rose to the occasion when others faltered. Pinchas was a grandson of Aaron, Kohen haGadol. He witnessed a grave transgression committed by fellow Israelites. In their disobedience to the laws of the Torah, some of the Israelite men engaged in immoral activities with the Midianite women, which led to idolatry and the desecration of G-d’s name. The situation was dire, and HaShem’s wrath was upon the Israelites.

In the midst of this chaos, Pinchas took it upon himself to intervene. Driven by his love for HaShem and his fellow Israelites, he displayed a tremendous act of courage and zealotry. Pinchas confronted the Israelite man who openly flaunted his immoral actions before the entire community. He ended the lives of both the Israelite man and the Midianite woman and put an end to the plague that had befallen the Israelites.

Now, Pinchas’ actions were undoubtedly controversial and shocking. They were born out of a deep sense of loyalty to HaShem and an unwavering commitment to the purity and sanctity of the Israelite community. Pinchas saw the spiritual decay spreading among his people and knew that decisive action was necessary to restore HaShem’s favor.

Pinchas’ leadership stands out not only for his zealotry but also for his selflessness. He acted without seeking personal gain or recognition. His motivation was solely driven by the desire to protect the well-being of the community and to bring honor back to HaShem. Pinchas was willing to take the burden upon himself, knowing that his actions might invite criticism and judgment. He put the greater good above his own reputation, comfort, and even his own safety.

In our modern world, selfless leadership remains a rare and precious quality. Many leaders are driven by personal ambition, seeking power, wealth, and fame. But true leaders, like Pinchas, are motivated by a higher purpose. They put the welfare of their followers and the greater good above their own self-interests.

Unselfish leaders are those who are willing to make sacrifices for the betterment of their community. They lead with integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. They inspire and empower those around them, fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and growth. Unselfish leaders prioritize values over personal gain and work towards a vision that benefits everyone.

As we reflect on the story of Pinchas, let us remember that we all have the capacity for unselfish leadership. We can make a difference in our families, workplaces, and communities by embodying the qualities of selflessness, empathy, and integrity. We can lead by example, putting the needs of others before our own, and making choices that promote the greater good.

May we be inspired by Pinchas’ unselfish leadership and strive to become leaders who bring healing, unity, and righteousness to our communities. May we have the courage to confront injustice, the wisdom to make difficult decisions, and the compassion to care for those in need.