Happy Fourth of July to all! As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we remember the ideals and virtues that gird our freedom, as well as the great risk it took and sacrifices that were made to ensure the American independence. Liberty came sooner for some of her citizens and rights were legislated later for all her children. The idea that all are created in the image of the Divine is ultimately winning; it is embedded in our founding Declaration.
During the American War of Independence brave soldiers and families loyal to the cause of liberty fought valiantly for the freedoms we enjoy today. While the colonists feared being outnumbered by the British Army, new leaders emerged who rallied the troops. At the Battle of Princeton, George Washington rallied his troops with a powerful speech, urging them to fight for their country and their freedom. He rode to within 30 yards of the British lines, shouting, “Parade with us my brave fellows! There is but a handful of the enemy, and we shall have them directly.”
Just as American leaders stood resolute in the face of adversity, Israeli leaders have also demonstrated unwavering courage in an ongoing war against enemies of freedom. As Rabbi Yossi Hecht wrote: Towards the end of Chukat, the Jewish people prepare to confront Og, the formidable king of Bashan. The Torah records a significant reassurance from G-d to Moses: “Do not fear him.” Yet, the Sages provide an interesting insight: Moses was indeed afraid. What could cause a leader of Moses’ caliber to feel fear? It was not merely Og’s formidable physical presence. Rather, Moses was troubled by Og’s spiritual merit, noting that Og had once performed a good deed by alerting Abraham of Lot’s capture. Moses feared that this kindness could tip the spiritual scales in Og’s favor, offering him protection in battle.
Despite his fears, Moses did not burden the people with his anxieties. He understood that as their leader, it was his responsibility to shield them from panic and uncertainty. Instead of communicating his doubts and allowing fear to infiltrate the camp, he turned inward, strengthening his resolve and leading his people forward.
Rabbi Hecht points out, “this illustrates a profound lesson about leadership. Moses’s greatness lay not only in his immense faith but also in his ability to inspire strength in others, even when he faced his own uncertainties. He realized that honesty is essential, yet a leader must also be a source of strength for their community.”
As we reflect on our own leaders, both past and present, we honor the dedication of those who have fought for our liberties. They, too, experience fear in the face of danger, yet they rise to the occasion, protecting and supporting those they serve. They embody the spirit of Moses, who modeled humility and courage.
On this Fourth of July, let us celebrate not only our independence but also the values of resilience, bravery, and perseverance that unite us as a nation. May we also take to heart the lesson from Chukat: that true leadership involves giving strength to others and fighting for the causes of liberty, equality and the pursuit of happiness (I’ll talk about what that means on Shabbat morning!).
Wishing everyone a joyous Fourth of July filled with gratitude and reflection, and a peaceful Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Bolton