new leader

“Difficult Transitions”
(Updated and revised from Vayeilech/Yom Kippur 5769-2008)

Transitions are always difficult. In parashat Vayeilech, we learn of the transfer of leadership from Moses to Joshua. In a Chassidic tale we learn about a Jewish feudal lord who had converted to Christianity, returning to the Jewish faith only moments before his death.

"Moses Blames the People for His Fate"

On several occasions, G-d tells Moses directly that he may not enter the land of Canaan because he failed to sanctify G-d's name when he hit the rock at May M'reeva. Why, then, does Moses, at least twice, blame the Jewish people for his being unable to enter the Promised Land?

"Difficult Transitions"

Transitions are always difficult. In parashat Vayeilech, we learn of the transfer of leadership from Moses to Joshua. In a Chassidic tale we learn about a Jewish feudal lord who had converted to Christianity, returning to the Jewish faith only moments before his death.