Midrash Tehillim, a collection of rabbinic teachings on the Book of Psalms, offers a surprising answer. It all boils down to leadership – specifically, a leader’s commitment to Torah study.
The passage in question focuses on Psalm 119, where it says, "They shall see and rejoice, those who fear You." But what exactly does "see and rejoice" mean in this context? The Midrash unpacks it for us: The people of Israel find their greatest joy when they witness their king, or even their president, deeply engaged in the study of Torah. Think about that for a moment.
It might seem odd to us today, but imagine a leader not just wielding power, but embodying wisdom and a connection to something greater.
The Midrash then connects this idea to another verse from Psalms (35:27): "Those who desire my vindication shall shout for joy and be glad." What follows that verse? "My tongue shall speak of Your righteousness, and of Your praise all day long" (Psalm 35:28). The connection is clear: when a leader dedicates themselves to Torah, to tzedek (righteousness) and praise of the divine, it creates a ripple effect of joy and well-being throughout the entire community.
Ginzberg, in his monumental work Legends of the Jews, often highlights the importance of righteous leadership in maintaining societal harmony. This passage from Midrash Tehillim seems to echo that very sentiment.
Now, it's easy to think of Torah study as something strictly religious, confined to synagogues and study halls. But the Midrash sees it as something more profound – a commitment to ethical living, to seeking wisdom, and to connecting with the deepest values of the Jewish tradition. When a leader embodies these values, it inspires the entire nation.
So, the next time you're considering what qualities you admire in a leader, remember this teaching. It's not just about charisma or political savvy, but about a genuine commitment to learning, growing, and embodying the highest ideals. Because, according to Midrash Tehillim, the joy of a nation is intrinsically linked to the leader’s dedication to Torah study. Is it any wonder that we are told, "They shall see and rejoice, those who fear You"?