Take the sum of all the congregation of the children of Israel. (1:2) We find a similar Posuk i¥p §a W` x z¤` ` ̈y ¦z i ¦k l ¥` ̈x §y¦i When you take the sum of the children of Israel according to their numbers, (Shemos 30:12) The Kotzker Rebbe states that these words l ¥` ̈x §y¦i i¥p §a W` x can also mean a leader and a guide for Klal Yisrael. To attest to this Pshat we notice that the -,uch, hatr- initial of the words l ¥` ̈x §y'¦i i¥p' §a W`' x is hcr' which alludes that a Manhig, leader, has to be a true leader. However cautions that the word hcr is also the abbreviationwv hbhg c g r “bad in the eyes of Hashem.” This comes to teach us that there are no compromises for a leader, either he is a good Leader or the opposite. (Harav Menachem Mendel of Kotzk)
We can elaberate on these quality words: The word E` §y or ` ̈y ¦z i ¦k also means to alleviate one's self. This adds to the pshat of the Kotzker Rebbe. The Manhig or leader has to raise his spirituality and be a role model to his congregants. When the leader’s are true role models, that will cause their congregants also to rise in Avodas Hashem. It is told that a Chosid of Harav Menachem Mendel of Kotzk asked for the Rebbe’s blessing that he merit sons who would study Torah with devotion. The Rebbe told him, “I suggest that you study Torah with devotion so that your sons will follow your example. For if not, then your sons will do the same – request that their sons study with devotion while they occupy themselves with other matters is a defeating purpose”.
The lesson is, lead by Example.
(Yehuda Z Klitnick)
