Behar: Humility

Liluei Nishmas Ita bas Chanoch Aharon Bistritzky

Parshas Behar describes how the Jews received the Torah at Har Sinai, chosen because it was the shortest of all mountains. This choice symbolizes that the Torah is acquired through humility, a core value in Judaism. However, humility in this context does not mean having low self-confidence or self-esteem. Instead, it signifies someone who is aware of their strengths and capabilities and recognizes their infinite value in the eyes of God but does not let their talents and self-worth inflate their ego.

According to the Torah, a humble person acknowledges their talents and contributions but believes that if someone else had the same abilities, they might do an even better job. True humility involves recognizing one's worth without being consumed by it. It is about understanding the greatness and reality of God and using one's gifts to fulfill a higher mission. These gifts are seen as tools for executing a higher calling, not as sources of personal pride.

Thus, humility in the Torah is like a mountain, albeit the shortest one. It represents someone who feels elevated and recognizes their soul's value but in a subdued and modest manner.