Be Chutzpadik

In constructing the outer altar for the Mishkan, Hashem instructs Moshe, “You must make protrusions for it at its four corners, the protrusions being of one piece with it. You must overlay this Altar with copper.” (27:2)

Rashi, based on Midrash (Tanchuma, Terumah 11) explains why there was a need for a copper cover – “to atone for sins committed with effrontery (chutzpa, boldness).” Every aspect of the Mishkan corresponded to certain behaviours that needed to be dealt with.

The simple understanding of the above Midrash is that chutzpa or boldness is not a good trait and needs to be eradicated. However, the Chasam Sofer views this differently. Chutzpa is good when properly applied.

An Israeli commando is captured and is set to be executed along with an American reporter. He asks the executioner, as a final request, to kick him as hard as he can in the backside. The executioner thinks it's some kind of insult but sure enough the soldier is bending over and it's hard to refuse. After being kicked the soldier easily breaks his bonds, knocks out the executioner, takes his rifle and quickly shoots the other guards. The reporter is thrilled to be alive and thanks the soldier profoundly but can't help but ask about his strange request. "Because if I hadn't" the soldier replied, "you would report that I was the aggressor".

If you are dealing with terrorists or enemies or the outside world, then we should be bold. We shouldn’t be meek or hold back in those situations. Similarly, with Torah study and Torah observance, we need to take the initiative.

The Mishnah states (Avos 2:5) that the “bashful person doesn’t learn.” A person needs to be prepared to ask questions and seek answers to properly understand what they are studying. That interaction clarifies the topic and the study method. If a person is too afraid to ask, that person will not progress. The sin of chutzpa is not applying it appropriately.