Parshat Vaetchanan: Trust in Others
by Rabbi Lobel

(Deuteronomy; Chapter 3, Verse 23 - 25) "I (Moses) implored G-d at that time, saying, 'My Lord, G-d, you have begun to show your servant your greatness and your strong hand, for what power is there in the heaven and the earth that could perform according to your deeds and power? Let me cross and see the good land that is on the other side of the Jordan, the good mountain and Levanon (the Holy Temple site)."

Moses was pleading with G-d to allow him to enter Israel. However, he was not destined to do so and G-d retorts (verse 26) "It is too much for you! Do not continue to speak to me further about this matter."

When G-d forbade Moses to speak to him further regarding this matter he adds the expression "it is too much for you." The Medrash Rabba (Bamidbar Rabba 18:18) explains that, with this expression, G-d was punishing Moses for being too harsh towards the Leviite tribe. When Korach threatened Moses, Moses was afraid the Leviites would join Korach's congregation. He warned the Leviites "it is too much for you, O Children of Levi (Numbers 16:7)."

Moses was looking out for the benefit of Levi, telling them that they received enough from G-d. However, Moses' words were too harsh. The tribe of Levi had no intention of joining Korach. The Medrash says that G-d told Moses, "You smote Levi with a staff by saying, 'it is too much for you' now you will hear from me 'it is too much for you.'" G-d told Moses to stop praying and asking to enter Israel because he already received enough.

Moses had a right to be concerned about the Tribe of Levi. Korach's influence was enormous. Moses, was also concerned for the rest of Israel and did his utmost to persuade all of Korach's followers. Still, his speech to Levi should have been with more sensitivity. Despite the danger of joining Korach, whose followers were punished with death, both physically and spiritually, a person must be sensitive when warning an individual. Moses was punished by having his prayer to enter Israel refused with the same tone of words he used towards the Children of Levi.

It is very easy to foresee our fellows being influenced negatively. Yet, we must be sensitive and trusting that their good nature will win. That sensitivity allows us to be more trusting, which is the best influence.