He led the Israelites for forty long years, through trials and tribulations, bringing them to the very doorstep of the Promised Land. But he wasn't allowed to cross over. Why?
The Torah tells us that Moses disobeyed God at the waters of Meribah (Numbers 20:1-13), striking the rock instead of speaking to it. This transgression, as we know, barred him from entering the land. But according to the legends, there's a deeper layer to this story.
Moses wasn't just thinking about himself. He was thinking about the people, about the future. He knew that his time was coming to an end, and that his disciple, Joshua, was destined to lead the Israelites into the land. But Moses was also concerned about something else: the mitzvot, the commandments, that could only be fulfilled in the Land of Israel.
He thought to himself, "If God has decided that I can't enter the land, and I'm going to miss out on the reward for all those precepts that can only be observed there, just because it's time for Joshua to take over, then wouldn't it be better for me to stay alive, enter the land, and let Joshua lead the people?" It’s a fascinating glimpse into his character, isn’t it? A leader thinking not of power, but of spiritual fulfillment, even for his people.
So, what did Moses do? This is where the story takes an unexpected turn. From the first day of Shevat to the sixth of Adar – that's thirty-six days – the day before his death, Moses became Joshua's servant. According to Legends of the Jews, Moses served Joshua from morning until evening, like a disciple serving his master.
Why? Because, as Ginzberg tells us, these thirty-six days corresponded to the thirty-six years that Joshua had served Moses. It was as if Moses was repaying a debt, acknowledging Joshua’s dedication and preparing him for leadership in the most profound way possible: through selfless service. The greatest prophet, the leader who spoke to God face to face, humbling himself before his successor. It’s a powerful lesson in humility, in leadership, and in the cyclical nature of life. It's a reminder that true greatness lies not in clinging to power, but in empowering others.
And it makes you wonder: What "lands" are we being kept from entering? What sacrifices are we willing to make for the sake of others and for the sake of something greater than ourselves? Perhaps the answer lies not in fighting to stay in control, but in gracefully passing the torch and serving the next generation.