The princes of the tribes of Israel certainly felt that way when it came time to dedicate the Mishkan (Tabernacle).
According to Ginzberg's retelling in Legends of the Jews, these tribal leaders weren’t satisfied with simply providing the wagons needed to transport the sacred sanctuary. They yearned to be the first to present their offerings on the momentous day of dedication. Imagine the scene: the air thick with anticipation, the newly constructed Tabernacle gleaming in the desert sun, and these powerful men eager to demonstrate their devotion.
But Moses, ever cautious and mindful of God’s will, hesitated. These offerings were, well, different. Not the usual fare. Were they even permissible? He wasn't sure. It’s a testament to Moses' humility that he constantly sought divine guidance, even when faced with seemingly straightforward situations. And God, as always, responded, instructing Moses to accept the princes' dedicatory offerings.
Even then, Moses still wrestled with the details. Should all twelve princes offer their sacrifices on the same day? Or should each have their own special day? And if so, what order should they follow? Imagine the logistical challenge! The Talmudic Sages grappled with such questions constantly.
God, in His infinite wisdom, resolved the dilemma. Each prince would indeed sacrifice on a special day, and the honor of going first would belong to Nahshon, the prince of Judah.
Why Nahshon? What made him so special?
His reward, we're told, stemmed from an act of incredible courage and unwavering faith during the harrowing crossing of the Red Sea. Remember that moment? The Israelites trapped between the pursuing Egyptian army and the unforgiving sea. Panic reigned. The tribes began to argue amongst themselves, each debating who should be the first to enter the water. Fear can do that, can't it? Paralyze us.
But then, Nahshon, without hesitation, plunged into the sea. He acted with firm conviction that God would be with Israel in their hour of need. According to the Talmud (Sotah 37a), as quoted by Rashi, the water reached his nostrils before the sea parted. That's some serious faith! It's a powerful image, isn't it? A leader demonstrating absolute trust in the face of impossible odds.
Nahshon's act wasn't just bravery; it was a demonstration of profound emunah (faith) and a willingness to put his life on the line for the sake of his people and his belief in God's promise. That act, and that faith, earned him the privilege of leading the way in the Tabernacle dedication.
So, what does Nahshon's story tell us? Perhaps it's that true leadership isn’t about titles or positions, but about courage, faith, and a willingness to be the first to step into the unknown, trusting that even in the deepest waters, we are not alone. And maybe, just maybe, it suggests that sometimes, the greatest rewards come to those who dare to be first in acts of faith and courage.