This last pasuk in the Torah is also Moshe Rabbeinu’s epitaph. It is a tribute to Klal Yisrael’s quintessential leader and Rebbe. Rashi explains that “yad chazakah,” strong hand, refers to the luchos which Moshe received on Har Sinai in his hands. He shattered these luchos “before the eyes of all Yisrael.” He took it upon himself to perform this courageous deed, an act which was affirmed by Hashem. Why does this act serve as such a great testimonial to Moshe’s character of leadership? Is it more critical than his role in the exodus from Egypt and the ensuing forty year tenure as leader, mentor and source of inspiration to Klal Yisrael? Is the fact that the Torah is endearingly referred to as Toras Moshe less of a tribute to him?
Horav Mordechai Ilan z.l. offers a profound insight .Moshe’s act of shattering the luchos created the line of demarcation which distinguishes Klal Yisrael from the gentile world. The exodus from Egypt was not a goal in its own right; it was a vehicle which enabled Klal Yisrael to reach Har Sinai. It purified them from the degenerate lifestyle and spiritual stench that comprised their environment in Egypt. It paved the way for the receiving of the Torah. Receiving the Torah was the culmination of the entire bondage experience and the ensuing exodus. This was still not sufficient, however, to insure that we would understand our distinctiveness from the rest of the world. It was only when Moshe broke the luchos, demonstrating that the Golden Calf and Torah are not compatible, that this concept became apparent.
This is the “strong hand” that seals the Torah and ensures its eternal inviolability. The breaking of the luchos shields against the notion of developing any alteration of the Torah, as well as any foolish addition to it. It is by demonstrating his ability to break the luchos if they are in danger of being transformed that Moshe showed the true character of his leadership.
