בס''ד

THE DAILY DAF MESSAGE OF THE BET ZVI DAFactory

Traits of a Leader

"Ben Zoma said: Who is considered wise? One who is prepared to learn from any person. Who is considered strong? One who controls his bad inclination. Who is considered wealthy? One who is satisfied with his financial situation. Who is considered respectable? One who respects others." (Avos 5.1)

A leader of Klal Yisrael on whom the Shechina rests, must ensure that his character traits are flawless:

First and foremost he must be wise, a leader who refuses to listen to his contemporaries is bound to err from time to time. Such a haughty person is unlikely to retract his decisions and is more than likely to cover them up.

A leader must act impartially when judging litigants and must be able to withhold a favorable judgment from a friend when it is undeserved. This is the Torah's outlook on authentic strength.

Similarly a judge who continually strives to improve his financial situation may be inclined to accept a bribe from a crooked litigant. He must therefore be wealthy i.e. happy with his lot, before accepting his high position.

A leader does not need to be tall in height but rather tall in stature. One who is respected by the populace can be assured that his leadership will not be easily undermined. However, a community figure who wishes to remain aloof from his surroundings can only expect grumblings and general dissatisfaction.