The essence of Moshe is his identification with the Jewish people. His soul is bound up with the people, and anything that threatens that connection is anathema to him. This is the impetus behind his oath: if the Torah’s law will not give space for the repentance of the people, then he cannot be within the Torah; he has to be with his people, above all else.
This is reflected in the theme of this parshah which is the inauguration of Aharon’s priesthood at the hands of Moshe. Aharon’s natural service is the lighting of the Menorah, which alludes to his kindling the souls of the Jewish people, so that their Divine light shines within them. Thus, his affinity is for those Jews who are conducive to illumination. But at G-d’s command, Moshe draws Aharon to a higher service, the service of the incense. The incense contains an ingredient which is rancid; its inclusion alludes to the sinner’s of Israel’s eternal connection with G-d. Thus, Moshe teaches Aharon how to be bound with every Jew, even those who are distant from their Divine light.
