146 Torah Book & Portion, Book of Exodus, Beshalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16), Source Book Keys, WAGS EXODUS | 16:8 what — EXOD253 How should a leader behave? In reference ... EXOD253 How should a leader behave? In reference to the laws concerning Jewish kings, Rambam defines how a leader should perceive his role: In the same manner as the Torah accords him (a Jewish king) honor, it also commands him to be modest and unassuming. He should not behave in a haughty manner toward his fellow Jews, as the verse says, "… in order that his heart should not become elevated over his brethren…" (Devarim 17:20). When addressing the congregation, he should speak in a soft manner, as the verse says, "Listen to me, my brothers and my people" (Divrei Hayamim I 28:2). He must conduct himself with extreme humility--no man surpassed Moshe Rabbeinu's achievements, and yet he said, "What are we?" [this verse]. He must bear their burden, complaints and angry outbursts (Hilchos Melachim ch.2). If this degree of humility is required of a king, then certainly a common person, even a supervisor over hundreds of people, is obligated to act in a humble and unpretentious manner. In actuality, a person who conducts himself in a self-effacing manner only stands to gain, since people are more likely to be influenced by a humble person than by a haughty one. As the verse says, "The gentle words of the wise are heeded" (Koheles 9:17). Share Print Source KeyWAGSVerse16:8Keyword(s)whatSource Page(s)89-90 Switch article EXODUS | 16:7 who — EXOD252 Many of the biblical figures that our Jew... Previous Article EXODUS | 16:14 dew — EXOD254 As we continue our study of Talmudic ethi... Next Article