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Leviticus 10:20 - Moshe accepts Aharon's reasoning.

Leviticus 10:20 - ויקרא 10:20

Hebrew Text

וַיִּשְׁמַע מֹשֶׁה וַיִּיטַב בְּעֵינָיו׃

English Translation

And when Moshe heard that, he was content.

Transliteration

Vayishma Moshe vayitav be'einaiv.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע מֹשֶׁ֔ה וַיִּיטַ֖ב בְּעֵינָֽיו׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
וַיִּשְׁמַ֣ע מֹשֶׁ֔ה וַיִּיטַ֖ב בְּעֵינָֽיו׃ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse "וַיִּשְׁמַע מֹשֶׁה וַיִּיטַב בְּעֵינָיו" (Shemot 18:24) appears in the context of Yitro (Jethro), Moshe's father-in-law, advising him to delegate judicial responsibilities to capable men to avoid exhaustion. Moshe listens to Yitro's counsel and implements the suggestion, leading to the phrase "he was content."

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Shemot 18:24) explains that Moshe was pleased with Yitro's advice because it aligned with Hashem's will. He notes that the phrase "וַיִּיטַב בְּעֵינָיו" indicates Moshe's approval, as it was a proper and wise suggestion. Rashi further emphasizes that Moshe did not hesitate to accept sound advice, demonstrating his humility and wisdom.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 1:1-2) discusses the importance of establishing a judicial hierarchy, as derived from this episode. He highlights that Moshe's acceptance of Yitro's counsel reflects the Torah's endorsement of structured leadership and delegation, ensuring justice is administered efficiently and fairly.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Mechilta (Yitro 2) states that Moshe's contentment ("וַיִּיטַב בְּעֵינָיו") was not merely personal satisfaction but a recognition of the divine wisdom in Yitro's words. The Midrash compares this to a student who hears a teaching from his teacher and rejoices in its truth.
  • The Sifrei (Devarim 1:9) elaborates that Moshe's willingness to heed advice exemplifies the trait of a true leader—one who values collective wisdom over personal pride.

Halachic Implications

The Talmud (Sanhedrin 8a) derives from this verse that judges must be appointed in every city to ensure accessible justice, as Moshe did following Yitro's advice. This establishes a foundational principle in Jewish law about the necessity of a decentralized judicial system.

Moral Lesson

The verse teaches the importance of humility and openness to counsel, even for a leader as great as Moshe. As the Or HaChaim (Shemot 18:24) notes, Moshe's contentment reflects his ability to recognize truth and act upon it, setting an eternal example for leadership and decision-making.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'Moshe was content' mean in Leviticus 10:20?
A: Rashi explains that Moshe was pleased when he heard Aharon's explanation about why his sons did not eat the sin offering. Aharon pointed out that given their mourning status (after Nadav and Avihu's deaths), eating it would have been inappropriate. Moshe acknowledged he was wrong and Aharon was right, showing humility.
Q: Why is Moshe's reaction in Leviticus 10:20 important?
A: The Talmud (Eruvin 54b) learns from this verse that a wise person should be willing to admit when they are wrong. Despite being the leader, Moshe accepted correction from Aharon. This teaches the importance of humility and truth over ego, even for great Torah scholars.
Q: How can we apply Leviticus 10:20 in daily life?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 5:7) derives from this verse that we should emulate Moshe's willingness to accept truth. In disagreements, if someone corrects us with valid Torah reasoning, we should acknowledge it graciously rather than stubbornly insisting on our position. This builds peace and Torah growth.