Moshe, the fifth of the Ushpizin, is the passionate teacher, prophet, and leader of Israel. He strives for justice, and he is devoted to the Land of Israel. Though his feeling are stirred by the plight of his people, at first he does not want to be the prophet and emissary tasked with confronting Pharaoh and leading Bnei Yisrael out of Egypt. Perhaps the most suited to the task of leader is the one who finds it too great a responsibility. He judges the people all day, until Yitro urges him to delegate. Does Moshe ever feel relieved of this burden? Even from the beginning, he tells God that he is “heavy of speech” – and he certainly is fit for the heavy task of introducing Bnei Yisrael to the Torah, facilitating their special relationship with God, transitioning them out of a slavery, and preparing them to enter the Land of Israel, though tragically, he is ultimately unable to enter the land himself.
Though he desperately wishes to enter the land, when he is told that he is not to enter, he prepares the people as best he can, asking God to delegate his successor in his lifetime, delivers long speeches to prepare the people for the future, and gives his successor his full support, devoting his efforts to ensure a seamless continuity.
For a summary of Moshe's life story click here
To learn more about Moshe, check out the links below:
Moshe: National Leader and Divine Representative
Representing God or Representing Israel
