Rashi comments that Moshe’s hands became heavy as a form of punishment, because he did not personally involve himself in the mitzvah of battling Amalek. According to Rashi these pesukim seem inconsistent with one another. On the one hand, Moshe raised his hand, turning the tide and effecting Klal Yisrael’s victory. On the other hand, Moshe is criticized for his atzlus, indolence, in not personally being involved in the war. How are these two ideas to be reconciled?
Horav Eliyahu Meir Bloch, z.l., infers from this pasuk a profound insight into the responsibility of a manhig Yisrael, Torah leader. One who stands at the helm of the spiritual leadership of Klal Yisrael should take a personal interest in all aspects of communal development. He should not delegate responsibilities to various individuals while sequestering himself in spiritual devotion and Torah study. Obviously, he should not neglect his own spiritual development. There must be a balance. Time must be alloted to oversee and direct the mundane issues of a community, while standing at the forefront of any incursion into the spiritual fibre of our people. One leader cannot ascend the mountain to pray while the other goes out to battle. This is not the appropriate manner in which a Torah leader achieves shleimus, perfection.
It is important to note that Horav Bloch’s words are directed towards the Torah leadership whose obligation it is to be involved in all aspects of Klal Yisrael. It does not however give license to the ben Torah who is devoted to Torah study to lessen his commitment. He should, however, be sensitive to easing the plight of those who stand prepared to defend Klal Yisrael.
Horav Bloch issued this statement. He demanded the same of other gedolim during the infancy of Agudas Yisrael and other Torah oriented organizations in America. He felt that other Roshei Yeshivah should participate in building the foundation for a strong and vibrant Torah Judaism in our country. As a result of his vision — and that of others — Torah learning and observance has blossomed in this country.
