Parshat VeZot HaBeracha: Responsibilities of Leadership
by Rabbi Lobel

(Deuteronomy; Chapter 34, Verses 9-10) "And Joshua the son of Nun was filled with a spirit of wisdom, because Moses placed his hand upon him (inducted him to the position of leadership), so the Children of Israel obeyed him (Joshua) and did as G-d commanded Moses. Never again has there arisen in Israel a prophet like Moses who G-d had known face to face."

The Ibn Ezra comments that Joshua was filled with "a spirit of wisdom" only because Moses himself appointed him as the next leader. If it was not for Moses' appointment, Joshua would have not received this extra wisdom from G-d.

It is understood that the only person of that generation fit to lead the Jewish nation was Joshua. Yet, it was still incumbent upon Moses to actually appoint him. And only because of Moses' appointment did the Jewish people listen to Joshua. This is clear in the verse, "because Moses placed his hand upon him, so the Children of Israel obeyed him (Joshua)."

The Jewish people should never be left to wander without a leader. Even though the Torah clearly states that there was never a prophet like Moses, it was time to move on. When the moment arrived and Moses did what was necessary G-d helped and filled Joshua with wisdom.

A nation without a leader only creates strife and argument. Moses understood this and, despite knowing that no one could match his greatness, appointed a worthy successor.