What defines a leader? Is it their presence or their impact? Is it the authority they hold or the burdens they carry? Parshat Tetzaveh presents an answer that challenges conventional thinking: true leadership is often unseen. Moshe Rabbeinu’s name is absent from the parsha, yet his influence is deeply felt. The Kohen Gadol wears the names of the nation over his heart, advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. Through these powerful symbols, Parshat Tetzaveh offers timeless lessons in leadership, connection, and responsibility—lessons that are just as relevant for us today.
At the heart of this parsha is the role of the Kohen Gadol (High Priest) and his sacred garments, each one imbued with deep spiritual symbolism. These garments were not just for adornment; they represented the Kohen Gadol’s responsibility to the nation, his role as an intercessor before Hashem, and his obligation to nurture unity among the tribes of Israel.
Beyond the Mishkan and the priesthood, Parshat Tetzaveh provides critical lessons for parents, educators, and community leaders—especially those guiding struggling youth. It speaks to the essence of leadership: carrying others in our hearts, ensuring that every soul has a place, nurturing resilience, and standing as an advocate for those who cannot stand for themselves. These messages are as relevant today as they were in the times of the Mishkan, offering timeless guidance on what it means to lead with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering presence.
Through the lens of rabbinical insights, we will explore the profound lessons of Parshat Tetzaveh and apply them to the modern challenges of supporting the next generation.
Leadership with Compassion: The Kohen Gadol’s Heart
One of the defining aspects of the Kohen Gadol was the Choshen Mishpat (Breastplate of Judgment), which contained twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel. The Torah tells us, "And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the Choshen Mishpat upon his heart when he goes into the holy place, for a memorial before Hashem continually" (Shemot 28:29). This imagery is profound—not only was the Kohen Gadol adorned with the names of the people, but he carried them over his heart, symbolizing that leadership must be rooted in deep emotional connection and responsibility.
The Ohr HaChaim explains that the Kohen Gadol’s role was not just to serve in the Mishkan but to carry the burdens and spiritual needs of the entire nation. His leadership was not about status or authority; rather, it was about ensuring that no individual was forgotten, no struggle ignored. This teaches us that true leadership is defined not by power, but by the ability to hold others close—to understand their struggles and advocate on their behalf.
The Malbim further elaborates that the Choshen was not merely an adornment but a symbol of deep responsibility. The placement of the names over the Kohen Gadol’s heart emphasized that a leader must not only intellectually acknowledge the people’s needs but must also feel them deeply. Leadership requires more than policies and decisions; it demands empathy, connection, and the willingness to stand in the place of those who cannot stand for themselves.
The Ramban adds another dimension by explaining that the Choshen contained the Urim VeTummim, which granted divine insight to guide the nation. This underscores that leadership must be both compassionate and wise, balancing heartfelt care with clear vision. A true leader does not act on emotions alone but seeks clarity and divine guidance to make the right decisions for those they serve.
The Sefat Emet expands on this idea, noting that the Kohen Gadol’s connection to the people was so deep that his service was not only a personal duty but a spiritual lifeline for the entire nation. His leadership required him to be constantly mindful of the needs of others, ensuring that every tribe, every individual, felt seen and valued.
Just as the Kohen Gadol carried the people over his heart, so too, every child and individual must feel embraced by those who guide them. True leadership—whether in a family, a school, or a community—means making space for each person, ensuring that they are recognized, supported, and uplifted. But beyond holding them close, we must also ensure that each person finds their rightful place within the community, recognizing their uniqueness and purpose.
This brings us to the Choshen Mishpat, which reminds us that every individual has a distinct and irreplaceable place in Klal Yisrael.
The Choshen Mishpat: Every Child Has a Place
Each of the twelve stones on the Choshen Mishpat was unique, yet together they formed a complete whole. This teaches us a profound lesson: unity is not about uniformity but about honoring individuality within a collective purpose. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 38:8) explains that the breastplate was a reminder that each tribe had its own role in fulfilling Hashem’s will, demonstrating that every individual has a distinct mission in Klal Yisrael.
The Ohr HaChaim adds that the stones were engraved in a manner that made each tribe’s name permanent, signifying that every individual has an irreplaceable role in the Jewish people. Just as a missing stone would render the Choshen incomplete, so too, every person is essential to the strength of Klal Yisrael. No one is expendable, and no soul is forgotten in Hashem’s grand design.
The Seforno further highlights that the stones on the Choshen were precious gems, reflecting the inherent worth of each individual. Even if a child struggles, they remain a gem—sometimes requiring refinement but always possessing value. The Kli Yakar expands on this idea, explaining that the Urim VeTummim illuminated the stones, revealing their unique beauty. This represents how proper guidance and encouragement can bring out the hidden potential within every child, allowing their inner light to shine even in moments of difficulty.
The Nesivos Shalom teaches that a core principle of Judaism is recognizing the uniqueness of each soul. A child does not need to fit into a predetermined mold to have value. Instead, our responsibility is to uncover their strengths, nurture their talents, and help them find their rightful place within the community.
Recognizing each child’s value is only the first step. The next challenge is ensuring that their inner flame remains strong, even in moments of struggle. Like the Ner Tamid, every soul contains a divine spark—a light that, no matter how dim it may seem, can always be reignited with love, patience, and encouragement.
The Eternal Flame: Never Let the Light Die Out
Parshat Tetzaveh begins with the mitzvah of the Ner Tamid (eternal flame), commanding that a light should always burn in the Mishkan: "And you shall command the children of Israel, that they bring pure olive oil beaten for the light, to cause a lamp to burn continually" (Shemot 27:20). This commandment reflects a fundamental truth: light must be constantly nurtured, even in times of darkness.
The Sfat Emet teaches that the Ner Tamid represents the eternal spark within every Jew. No matter how distant one may feel from Torah and mitzvot, the flame can always be rekindled. The Baal Shem Tov similarly emphasized that within every Jew, even one who has strayed, there remains a ner tamid—a small, hidden spark of holiness waiting to be reignited. This teaches us that hope is never lost, and that even those who feel disconnected from their spiritual source retain a light within them, ready to shine again.
The Ramban explains that the phrase "beaten for the light" (כתית למאור) teaches that even through suffering and hardship, one’s inner light can still shine. Just as olive oil must be crushed and refined to produce a pure and lasting flame, so too, struggles refine and strengthen a person’s character. This is particularly relevant for youth at risk, whose difficulties can ultimately lead to deep personal growth and resilience if given the right support.
The Chidushei HaRim adds that the commandment to bring oil for the Ner Tamid was given to all of Bnei Yisrael, not just the Kohanim. This signifies that everyone has a role in ensuring the light continues to shine—both within themselves and within others. It is a communal responsibility to protect, nurture, and reignite the sparks of those who feel lost or forgotten.
Every soul carries an irreplaceable brilliance. Some shine openly, while others need patience and care to reveal their inner light. Just as the Ner Tamid was never allowed to extinguish, we must never let a child’s potential fade into the shadows.
The Netziv further explains that the Ner Tamid was not allowed to be extinguished even temporarily, teaching us that there is never a time when a person is beyond hope. Even if the flame flickers, it must be guarded and nurtured so that it never goes out completely. The message is clear: even in the darkest moments, there is always a light that can be reignited.
The Ner Tamid burns eternally even when unseen, just as Moshe Rabbeinu’s leadership shines through his absence in this parsha. His quiet yet unwavering guidance serves as a model for those who shape lives not through prominence, but through selfless dedication. True leadership, like the eternal flame, is about sustaining and igniting others, even when the impact is not immediately visible.
Moshe’s Absence: The Power of Silent Leadership
One of the most striking aspects of Parshat Tetzaveh is that Moshe Rabbeinu’s name is not mentioned. This is the only parsha from Shemot through Devarim where Moshe is absent.
The Vilna Gaon explains that this omission reflects Moshe’s unparalleled humility. He was not a leader who sought recognition but one who led by empowering others. True leadership is not about being in the spotlight but about elevating those around you. The Sefat Emet adds that Moshe’s absence in Tetzaveh is connected to his selfless plea on behalf of Bnei Yisrael after the sin of the Golden Calf: "And now, if You would but forgive their sin! But if not, erase me now from Your book that You have written" (Shemot 32:32). His willingness to be erased from the Torah for the sake of his people was actualized in this parsha, demonstrating that true leadership is self-sacrifice—putting others before oneself without concern for personal honor.
The Chasam Sofer explains that Moshe’s name may be absent, but his essence permeates the entire parsha. Though unseen, his influence is everywhere—a reminder that some of the greatest leaders are those who do their work behind the scenes, shaping generations without demanding recognition. The Or HaChaim expands on this idea, emphasizing that Moshe’s absence is not a sign of diminished importance but rather a reflection of his ultimate selfless leadership—one that does not need to be explicitly stated to be deeply felt.
Silent leadership has great power—the ability to shape, inspire, and uplift without the need for acknowledgment. However, there are also times when stepping forward is necessary—especially when advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. The Kohen Gadol’s role in interceding for the people teaches us the responsibility of standing in the gap for those who struggle. Leadership, whether silent or vocal, is ultimately about knowing when to step back and empower, and when to step forward and defend.
Moshe’s absence in Tetzaveh is not a void, but a lesson—a powerful demonstration that the truest leaders are those whose impact is felt, even when they remain unseen. Moshe’s silent leadership teaches humility, while the Kohen Gadol’s active advocacy teaches us that leadership also means taking responsibility for those who struggle. The two models are not opposites but complementary—one guides by presence, and the other by action. Moshe’s silent presence teaches humility, while the Kohen Gadol’s role reminds us that advocacy is an essential part of leadership. When those in need cannot raise their own voices, we must stand in the gap for them.
The Kohen Gadol as an Advocate: Standing in the Gap
The Kohen Gadol was not just a spiritual leader but an advocate for the people, standing before Hashem on their behalf. His role extended beyond performing rituals—he carried the sins, struggles, and prayers of the nation, pleading for mercy and guidance.
The Ramban (Shemot 28:30) explains that the Urim VeTummim—mystical stones within the Choshen Mishpat—were used to seek divine guidance, representing the Kohen Gadol’s responsibility to intercede for the nation. The fact that these stones were embedded in the Choshen, which rested over the Kohen Gadol’s heart, symbolizes that true advocacy comes from a place of deep love and understanding.
The Kohen Gadol’s advocacy was not passive; it was deeply emotional. As he entered the Kodesh HaKodashim, he carried the names of the people over his heart—not just physically, but spiritually. This teaches us that true advocacy is not about obligation; it is about love. A struggling child does not just need someone who will speak for them—they need someone who will feel for them, who will take their pain and make it their own.
The Meshech Chochmah points out that the Kohen Gadol did not serve as a detached figure of authority; rather, he was meant to be a living embodiment of the people’s needs, feeling their pain as his own. This is why he entered the Kodesh HaKodashim (Holy of Holies) on Yom Kippur wearing the garments that bore the names of the twelve tribes—reminding us that true advocacy is personal, not distant.
The Chazon Ish emphasized that just as the Kohen Gadol bore the spiritual burdens of Israel, so too must parents and educators advocate for children who struggle. A child at risk often lacks the strength to plead for themselves, making it essential that someone stands in their corner, representing them with love, patience, and unwavering commitment.
The Shem MiShmuel adds that the Kohen Gadol was tasked with bringing atonement not just for individuals but for all of Klal Yisrael, teaching us that a single struggling soul is never alone—their pain is shared by the entire nation. This reflects the collective responsibility to ensure that no child is abandoned in their struggles.
The Kohen Gadol’s advocacy was not passive; it was deeply emotional. As he entered the Kodesh HaKodashim, he carried the names of the people over his heart—not just physically, but spiritually. This teaches us that true advocacy is not about obligation; it is about love. A struggling child does not just need someone who will speak for them—they need someone who will feel for them, who will take their pain and make it their own.
Practical Applications: A Call to Action
· Every child has a place. Parents and educators must nurture the unique strengths of each child, recognizing that every individual has a distinct and irreplaceable role in Klal Yisrael. Just as the Choshen Mishpat was incomplete without all twelve stones, so too, our community is lacking when even one soul is overlooked. We must foster environments where children feel valued, understood, and embraced for who they are.
· Never let the spark fade. Even when a child appears distant or struggling, their spiritual flame remains alive—our role is to help it grow. Like the Ner Tamid, which was never extinguished, we must believe in the hidden potential within every child. Even those who seem lost can find their way back with the right support, patience, and unconditional love.
· Silent leadership is powerful. Support, guidance, and self-sacrifice shape a child’s future, even if they do not recognize it in the moment. Moshe Rabbeinu’s absence in this parsha teaches that true leadership is not always visible, but its impact is immeasurable. A parent’s quiet dedication, an educator’s patience, and a mentor’s unwavering belief can transform a life in ways that words never could.
· Advocate for those in need. Every struggling child deserves someone who stands by them, pleads their case, and never gives up. The Kohen Gadol carried the names of Bnei Yisrael over his heart as a reminder that he was their representative before Hashem. Likewise, parents, educators, and community leaders must advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves, ensuring that no child is left to navigate their struggles alone.
· A collective responsibility. Just as the Kohen Gadol carried the names of all the tribes, so too must we carry the responsibility of ensuring that no child is left in darkness. If we fail to support struggling youth, we fail as a community. Just as the Kohen Gadol carried the entire nation over his heart, we must carry those who struggle—because if even one child is left behind, our collective mission remains incomplete. The commandment of the Ner Tamid was given to all of Bnei Yisrael, teaching us that keeping the light burning is a shared mission. Schools, communities, and families must work together to build a culture of inclusion, encouragement, and unwavering support.
Through these lessons, Parshat Tetzaveh reminds us that true leadership—whether in the Mishkan or in our own lives—is defined by compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to every soul in Klal Yisrael. The lessons of Parshat Tetzaveh demand action. Whether through parenting, education, or communal support, each of us has a role in ensuring that no soul is left behind. Just as the Kohen Gadol bore the people on his heart, we must carry the responsibility of guiding, uplifting, and standing by every struggling child.
Conclusion: Building a Mishkan of Love and Support
The central theme of Parshat Tetzaveh is the construction of the Mishkan, a dwelling place for Hashem’s presence. The Netziv explains that the Mishkan was not just a place of worship but a sanctuary of connection—a place where Bnei Yisrael could feel Hashem’s closeness, comfort, and guidance. It was a space of light, love, and spiritual belonging—principles that must also shape our own homes, schools, and communities.
Every generation is tasked with building its own Mishkan, ensuring that the next generation feels supported, valued, and uplifted. Parents, educators, and mentors must view their homes and communities as miniature Mishkanot—places where children feel safe, supported, and spiritually connected.
· Just as the Kohen Gadol wore the Choshen over his heart, we must hold our children close with empathy and care. Leadership is not about authority but about carrying others with us, ensuring they feel seen, loved, and understood.
· Just as the Ner Tamid was never extinguished, we must never give up on a child’s potential. No matter how dim a flame may appear, with patience, love, and encouragement, it can always be reignited. The most challenging moments can often lead to the greatest transformations.
· Just as Moshe led through humility and selflessness, we must lead with quiet strength and unwavering presence. True leadership is not about being at the forefront but about elevating others, guiding them with wisdom, and ensuring they feel supported even when we remain unseen.
· Just as the Kohen Gadol stood as an advocate for his people, we must stand in support of every struggling child. The most vulnerable among us must never feel alone. Every child deserves an advocate, someone who believes in them, fights for them, and ensures they are never forgotten.
The Mishkan was built brick by brick, piece by piece, with care and intention. In the same way, we must build homes, schools, and communities that foster love, resilience, and hope. Through these lessons, Parshat Tetzaveh reminds us that true leadership—whether in the Mishkan or in our own lives—is defined by compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to every soul in Klal Yisrael. When we lead with love and stand as beacons of unwavering support, we illuminate the path forward, ensuring that no child is ever lost, and no soul is ever left in darkness.
Have a Wonderful Shabbos!!!
Yaakov Lazar
Executive Director, Kol Haneshamot
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