Divine Appointment and Human Potential - The Deeper Meaning of Counting

Full Summary

This shiur begins by questioning Rashi (רש"י)'s explanation of the counting in Parshas Bamidbar - why does the Torah (תורה) count the Jewish people at this particular juncture? The Rav suggests that the Hebrew word 'pekudim' means both counting and appointing, indicating that this census represents an elevation and transformation of the Jewish people into a new spiritual reality as they prepare to enter Eretz Yisrael as the 'army of Hashem (ה׳).' The discussion then moves to a Gemara (גמרא) about Chana's prayer, specifically her words 'Roma karni b'Hashem' (my horn is elevated through Hashem) and the distinction between kings anointed from a horn (keren) versus a clay vessel (pach). Kings anointed from a horn, like David and Solomon, established lasting dynasties, while those anointed from clay vessels did not. This leads to an analysis of the verse 'Ein kadosh ka'Hashem ki ein biltecha' - there is no holy one like Hashem because nothing outlasts You. The Rav explains that humans don't truly create but merely arrange existing materials, which is why their creations can outlast them. However, Hashem is the true Creator whose creations derive their very existence from Him and therefore cannot outlast Him. This principle extends to leadership positions - becoming a king or leader isn't merely being placed in a job, but receiving a new spiritual reality and divine energies. Using historical examples, including references to figures like Hitler who rose to unprecedented power despite lacking obvious qualifications, the Rav demonstrates that positions create the person rather than the person bringing capabilities to the position. This explains why someone elevated to greatness receives forgiveness for past sins - they literally become a new person through their appointment. The practical application is profound: people shouldn't avoid positions of Torah leadership or communal responsibility thinking they lack capabilities. The position itself provides the necessary spiritual energies and divine assistance. What's required is openness, willingness to grow, and commitment to serving Hashem's will rather than pre-existing talents. The shiur concludes with powerful stories illustrating how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things when circumstances demand it, particularly citing a Holocaust story of a grandmother who, despite starving herself, used her precious water ration to comfort a dying child. This demonstrates that when Hashem needs something accomplished, He provides superhuman strength and capabilities to those willing to serve as His vessels.