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Why does God establish the Sanhedrin in response to the people's complaints in the desert? The seventy leaders chosen were specifically those who had shown parental love in Egypt by taking beatings to protect the people. Only leaders who have proven they put others before themselves can credibly explain to 'children' that their divine Parent's seemingly harsh actions are truly for their benefit.
This shiur examines the complex dynamics in Parshas Beha'aloscha, focusing on the series of complaints by the Jewish people (Mesononim) and the establishment of the Sanhedrin HaGadol as God's response. The Rav explores why such a positive institution emerges from what appears to be terrible sins, analyzing Rashi (רש"י)'s commentary on multiple levels. A central theme is the distinction between two types of leaders who emerged from Egypt. The first group were shotrim (overseers) who took responsibility for the people and were beaten when quotas weren't met - they were leaders who pushed the people to fulfill their obligations. The second group, however, demonstrated rachmanus (compassion) by telling the people not to worry about impossible tasks, saying 'we'll get beaten up instead of you.' This second group functioned as parents, putting the people before themselves.
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Parshas Beha'aloscha
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Why did Klal Yisrael's complaints change so dramatically after Sinai from survival needs to quality-of-life demands? Moshe's argument after the Golden Calf reveals that they transformed from refugees to a nation with rights. This shift changed Moshe's role from messenger to nursemaid and explains their new self-centered attitude affecting even marriage relationships.
