To Shine, To Serve, To Journey: Purpose in Every Step

“Living with purpose means using our talents to illuminate the path for others, contributing to the greater good”

Parashat Beha'alotecha, contains several powerful narratives and instructions that speak to the idea of purpose—both individual and communal. Here are some key teachings related to purpose from the parashah:

1. The Menorah: Illuminating with Purpose

The parashah opens with HaShem instructing Aaron to kindle the lamps of the menorah in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) (Bamidbar 8:1–4). The lamps were to cast their light forward, symbolizing a directed, intentional illumination. The Hebrew word "beha'alotecha" literally means "when you cause to ascend"—implying that the flame should rise by itself. Rashi explains that this teaches us to kindle until the flame burns independently. I recall studying this very deep concept with a very good friend of mine not long ago.

Lesson: Purpose is not just about doing a task—it’s about empowering and igniting lasting light, in ourselves and others. When we help others find their own spark, we fulfill a higher purpose. Like the menorah, our purpose is not simply to shine, but to shine in a specific direction—toward something greater than ourselves. Living with purpose means using our talents to illuminate the path for others, contributing to the greater good.

2. The Levites: Called to Serve

The Levites are formally consecrated for service in the Mishkan, replacing the firstborn as HaShem's representatives (Bamidbar 8:5–26). They are given a defined role, to serve HaShem and the nation, a model of purposeful living.

Lesson: Each of us has a unique role to play. The Levites didn’t choose their job, but once chosen, they embraced it. Sometimes purpose isn’t something we find—it’s something we accept and elevate with our commitment and integrity.  Our purpose is found not in self-centered pursuits, but in serving something greater than ourselves—whether it's a cause, a community, or a divine mission.

3. Following the Cloud: Purpose in Trusting the Journey

The Israelites travel based on the movement of the divine cloud—sometimes staying put for a day, sometimes for a year. They moved when the cloud lifted and rested when it settled.

 "At the command of the Lord they encamped, and at the command of the Lord they journeyed." (Bamidbar 9:23)

Lesson: Purpose sometimes means being willing to move or wait, even without full understanding. It requires trust—that where we are is where we’re meant to be, and that our journey has meaning even when the destination is unclear. Along with trust, purpose requires patience. We may feel ready to move, but part of purposeful living is knowing when to wait, and when to act, guided not by impulse but by higher wisdom or timing.

4. Complaints and Manna: Losing Sight of Purpose

The people complain about the manna and long for the food of Egypt. In doing so, they forget the spiritual purpose behind their freedom.

Lesson: Without a clear sense of purpose, even miracles become mundane. When we lose sight of why we’re doing something, we become vulnerable to dissatisfaction and nostalgia for old habits—even harmful ones.

5. Moses’ Leadership Crisis: Purpose and Limits

Moses reaches a breaking point, saying:

 "I am not able to bear all this people alone." (Numbers 11:14)

Moses, overwhelmed by leadership, cries out to HaShem (Bamidbar 11:10–17), who responds by distributing his spirit among seventy elders to help him.

Lesson: Fulfilling one’s purpose doesn't mean doing everything alone. It often involves sharing the burden, recognizing limits, and empowering others. A leader must know when and what to delegate.True purpose is sustainable only when it includes community and collaboration.

In summary, whether we're leading, following, stumbling, or starting again, this parashah reminds us that purpose is not static—it’s a dynamic journey guided by our values, resilience, and relationship with something higher. Parashat Beha'alotecha teaches that purpose is a journey of elevation, service, trust, humility, and openness to possibility. Whether kindling a flame, following a cloud, or managing burdens, we are called to live not just with intention but with devotion to something greater.