Moses and the Courage to Hear

Scripture“Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord is one.”— Deuteronomy 6:4

Leadership often tempts people to speak more and listen less.The higher one rises, the easier it becomes to confuse authority with understanding. Leaders are expected to have answers, to move quickly, to project confidence. Over time, this pressure can create distance—and distance can make it harder to hear what is true.

But the Sh’ma begins with a different command: Hear.

Before Israel is told what to do, they are told how to posture themselves—to listen. Hearing is not passive; it is the foundation of faithfulness. To “hear” in this sense is to attend, to receive, and to respond.

This command applies not only to the community, but especially to those who lead it.

The story of Moses reveals a leader shaped not only by what he says, but by what he is willing to hear.

Moses listens—to God, to the people, and even to criticism. This is not easy listening. The people he leads are often frustrated, fearful, and restless.........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)