Parashat Sh’lach 5783

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

Parashat Sh’lach tells the story of the spies going into the land of Israel, to scout out what the people and area were like, and then report back to Moses what they saw. All the spies except two, Joshua bin Nun and Caleb ben Yefuneh said that the people were like giants, and they did not give a favorable report; in fact they were very negative.  However, Joshua and Caleb brought back grapes and said that the land was indeed flowing with milk and honey. They were positive, and did not scare the children of Israel. What kind of leader do you strive to be – positive or negative? What kind of leader do you think gets more accomplished?  Which of these spies showed leadership skills – those who followed the crowd, or Joshua and Caleb, who went against the majority of the spies? It is often hard to voice a contrary opinion, and it takes great strength and courage, as exemplified by Joshua and Caleb. May we follow the example of Joshua and Caleb, voicing our opinions, even if we know there are those who will disagree with us.  Chazak v’Ematz – Be Strong and Courageous!