5786/2026
Growth is a fundamental value amongst the core values of Judaism. The Torah acknowledges the human's inherent flaws and recognizes that no one is perfect. This understanding serves as the basis for providing role models that exemplify the qualities and virtues we should aspire to emulate.
At the pinnacle of this group stands the Kohen Gadol, who epitomises traits such as kindness and intelligence. Because of this, one might overlook his seemingly typical description in this week’s Parashah, Parashat Emor: “VeHaKohen HaGadol MeiEchav,” “The Kohen who is exalted above his brethren” (VaYikra 21:10). However, the Chozeh MiLublin extracts a profound insight from this phrase. Instead of reading the Pasuk as stating: “The Kohen who is exalted above his brethren,” he explains the Pasuk to be saying “the Kohen who is from his brethren.”
The Kohen Gadol serves as the ultimate role model, but not because he is untouchable, because he is “from his brethren”; simply put, his greatness isn't inaccessible, but rather the ultimate destination for one to reach. He stands with Am Yisrael in their challenges and acknowledges his imperfections, yet he still attains true Tachlit and Tzidkut. This is what makes him the perfect role model. By stating that he comes from his brothers, the Torah demonstrates that excellence does not demand innate perfection. The Kohen Gadol illustrates that we need to focus on improving our own Middot from our current position and that the peaks of holiness are reached through shared experiences and an understanding that no one is perfect.