Divrei Menachem

Divrei Menachem

Leadership is one of the critical factors that fashion the way society progresses. In Biblical times, leadership of the people was largely in the hands of the Kohen Gadol, at least insofar as his prayers and offerings would atone for the sins of Bnei Yisrael. Accordingly, the way in which the KG conducted himself had very serious consequences for the community as a whole.
In our parsha, the unfortunate situation in which the KG is guilty of sin is treated in depth. The sin may be intentional or accidental. Notably, when the error of his ways was unintentional and the community leader became aware of his misdemeanor, he was also found accountable and was to bring the appropriate sin offering (Vayikra 4:22).
When a KG sins he not only has to make a reckoning of his own behavior but he also has to consider what affect his example has on the people. For, as the Torah tells us, his iniquitous transgression, “brings guilt upon the people” (ibid 4:3). For Rashi this clearly demonstrates that the ruler of the Jewish people is more than just a leader: He is an emissary who represents the people and intercedes on their behalf.
But for Ibn Ezra and the S’forno the tables are turned: Why would the sovereign power reach the stage of sin in the first place? Because the people are at such a low level that the ruling parties are dragged down by their very own subjects. Clearly, this is food for thought.

Shabbat Shalom, Menachem Persoff

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