Machshavot HaLev - Yeshivat Lev HaTorah

188
בלה תובשחמ
up the light of the sun are forced to rise to the challenge to redouble the light of
the sun with their own unique and enchanting lights, which were “ignited” by the
inspiration of the “sun”. Thus, the death of the righteous atones and purifies, and
forces the people to grow to their fullest to fulfill their own potential.
After forty years in the desert and countless complaints and rebellions it is
finally time for Am Yisrael as a whole to “grow up” and for the people to assume
responsibility for themselves. On the surface, this parsha may just seem like more
of the same complaining and rebelling. In fact, though, this is finally the stunning
turning point that we have all been waiting for.
First Miriam passes on, and her fountain of living waters disappears with her.
Thus, the people thirst for water, and complain, and rebel. However, this time,
Hashem says that things will be different. Forty years ago, Moshe had to strike
the rock in order to bring forth water. Similarly, Am Yisrael had stubborn hearts
of stone that had to be struck with the awe and fear of God at Har Sinai in order to
allow the waters of Torah to start flowing. Now, Hashem says, “Speak to the rock”
(20:8). Rashi explains that the people were meant to see the rock obey the word
of Hashem because even the rock “loves” and “wants” to be close to Hashem.
Hashem is saying that He believes in Am Yisrael! They are ready to “grow up”
and truly listen out of love and a desire to come close to Hashem. However,
Moshe does not allow them that opportunity, and thus, can no longer lead the
new generation.
Then Aharon passes on and with him disappear the clouds of glory that protected
Am Yisrael, exposing them to the attack of Melech Arad. After an initial setback,
Am Yisrael, for the first time ever, does not complain or shift the responsibility
to Moshe. Rather, for the first time ever, they take the initiative themselves and
declare a neder, recognizing their dependence on Hashem, and making a serious
commitment. Once they commit themselves, Hashem immediately responds by
granting them victory.
Lastly, the people reject the taste of the sublime mann, which they receive daily in
the merit of Moshe, thereby in some sense rejecting Moshe himself. Once again
their complaining is met with punishment from Hashem, this time in the form
of snakes. However, stunningly, for the first time ever, Am Yisrael of their own