As we end the Book of Numbers we are preparing to enter the Land of Israel. Up until now God took care of our every need. Now it is time for us to show God that we are able to stand up and take care of ourselves.
Now for a quick Devar Torah.
This week’s parashah, Matot-Masei, brings the Book of Numbers to a close. Next week we begin the Book of Deuteronomy, which is essentially Moses’ farewell address before the Jewish people enter the Land of Israel.
The Book of Numbers has been the story of the Jewish people in the wilderness. But why does the Torah devote so much attention to those forty years?
Because the wilderness was a unique stage in our nation’s development. Every day, the Jewish people experienced open miracles. God provided food through the manna. He gave them water. Their clothing did not wear out. Every basic need was taken care of. They lived under God’s direct care.
Now everything is about to change.
As they enter the Land of Israel, they will have to farm the land, build businesses, establish courts, defend themselves, and create a functioning society. The miracles will not disappear, but they will become less obvious. God will still be there, but now the people must assume responsibility for their own lives.
In many ways, this is like raising children. A young child depends on a parent for everything. But every good parent hopes for the day when that child can stand on his own. The greatest compliment a child can give a parent is, “I can take care of myself now.”
That is what God is saying to Israel. Until now, you have been like children. Now you must become a mature nation. Live by the Torah not only in the synagogue, but also in the marketplace, in the courtroom, on the farm, and in government.
One of the lessons we saw in last week’s account of the war against Midian is that all of the captured property was brought before Moses and carefully accounted for. Nothing was hidden. Leadership demanded complete transparency.
Even Moses could not simply say, “Trust me.” The Torah teaches that honest leaders should also be accountable leaders.
I was reminded of this by a friend who served as treasurer of my Masonic lodge. He insisted on having his books audited every year. I told him, “We all trust you. Why do you want an audit?” He answered, “Because if I made an honest mistake, I want it to be found and corrected.”
That is a powerful lesson. Transparency protects both the public and the leader.
It is also one of the principles behind the American Constitution. Our system of checks and balances assumes that power must always be accountable. Everyone watches everyone else—not because we assume people are dishonest, but because human beings are imperfect, and accountability helps preserve integrity.
As the Jewish people prepare to enter the Land of Israel, the Torah teaches that a free society must also be a responsible society. It must be built on honesty, accountability, and leaders who are willing to let their actions be examined openly.
Something to think about.
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