The next Torah portion (Parashat) for the week of May 30, 2026, is Parashat Beha'alotcha in Israel and Parashat Naso in the Diaspora. It highlights the dangers of internal polarization, the psychological toll of collective fatigue, and the need for grassroots leadership, as a shared, community-based leadership is the foundational blueprint for the Jewish institutional world.
Despite being on a miraculous journey, the Israelites complain about the manna and romanticize their time in Egypt, demonstrating a struggle to appreciate the present. The narrative also details widespread complaining, the fracturing of unity, and Miriam and Aaron speaking Lashon Hara (derogatory speech) about Moses. The story of Miriam reminds modern Jews of the devastating impact of toxic discourse and the necessity of focusing on national cohesion and respectful communication.
Jewish communal leadership is grounded in the concepts of kehillah (community), tikkun olam (healing the world), and tzedakah (righteous giving). Rather than seeking power or control, leaders act as facilitators, visionaries, and servants who inspire, teach, and empower others.
Communal governance relies on a strong partnership between lay leaders and Jewish professionals (clergy and organizational staff), treating the roles as sacred collaborations. It validates the importance of grassroots organizations, community boards, and local advocates in sustaining Jewish communal life.
A successful leader focuses on the needs of the community rather than personal ego or status. Leadership is not about authority over others, but elevating them. This must be done with patience but without being obsessed with the result. A refrain from the Turkish Sephardic community teaches that "You can take a donkey on a long journey and it will return the same donkey".
The highest form of leadership is teaching. True leaders earn the respect of their community by shaping purpose and vision, not just enforcing rules. Just as God had faith in the Jewish people, leaders must believe in the potential greatness of those they lead, even when faced with faults or slow progress.
Leaders must protect those in their charge, avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing, and maintain healthy interpersonal boundaries and accountability. Leaders are also expected to continually train and empower the next generation, honoring the maxim that while you are not required to finish the work, neither are you free to desist from it.
