Rashi explains that there are places in the Torah where Moshe Rabbeinu’s name precedes that of Aharon HaKohen. Likewise, there are instances where Aharon’s name precedes that of Moshe. The Chasam Sofer wonders why specifically it is in the above pasuk that we find Aharon’s name written first. (Obviously, Moshe Rabbeinu, being the Rabban Shel Kol Yisrael, quintessential leader of our People, should have his name written first. When Aharon’s name precedes Moshe’s there must be a reason, a lesson to be derived therein.) Indeed, as Hashem’s primary agent for leading Klal Yisrael out of Egypt, Moshe’s name should be mentioned first. What specifically happened to catapult Aharon to precede Moshe in being written first in the Torah?
The Chasam Sofer explains that toward the end of Parashas Shemos the Torah writes concerning Aharon, V’ra’acha v’somach b’libo, “And when he sees you he will rejoice in his heart” (Shemos 4:14). The power of middos tovos, positive character traits, of love and care for a fellow Jew, is what turned the tide. When an older brother takes pride in his younger brother’s achievements when he manifests true love for his younger sibling; despite the fact that as a result of these achievements, the older brother will be relegated to second place, his name warrants first mention.
Aharon HaKohen wore the Choshen HaMishpat, Breastplate, over his heart. The Choshen had the names of the Shivtei Kah, Tribes, engraved on its precious stones. The heart that empathized with all of the nation, was the rightful place to be the repository for the Choshen.
A talmid came to the Rosh Yeshivah of Beth Medrash Govoah, Horav Aharon Kotler, zl, complaining of severe stomach pains. Shortly thereafter it was confirmed that he was experiencing an acute attack of appendicitis. Rav Aharon walked him to the door of his house (on his way to the car that would take him to the hospital for surgery) and bid him refuah sheleimah, wishing him a successful procedure and speedy recovery. One week later, Rav Aharon himself suffered from appendicitis. Baruch Hashem, the Rosh Yeshivah was healed. During his recuperation, a close student visited him. Rav Aharon said, “Hashem gave me a shiur, lesson, in nosei b’ol im chaveiro, ‘Carrying the yoke together with his friend.’ Had I demonstrated even greater empathy for that student, I would not have experienced this attack.”
