Bella Wener - Dvar Torah

Parashat Beha’alotcha, from Numbers, teaches us about leadership, faith, and bringing light to others. One key moment is when God tells Aaron to light the Menorah. The Torah says Aaron should “raise up” the lamps so their light shines forward. This isn’t just about lighting candles—it’s about spreading hope and guidance, like turning on a light in a dark room.

The word “beha’alotcha” means “when you lift up.” Aaron’s job was to make the Menorah’s light shine brightly for everyone. This idea of light runs through the whole parsha. For example, the Israelites complain about the manna, wishing they had the food from Egypt. They focus on what they don’t have instead of seeing the miracle of God’s care and showing appreciation for what they do have. It’s like they’re stuck in the dark, unable to see the good around them. Later, Miriam and Aaron talk against Moses, letting jealousy cloud their view of his special role as God’s leader.

But the parsha also shows how to bring back light. Some Israelites couldn’t offer the Passover sacrifice because they were impure. They didn’t give up; instead, they asked Moses, “Why can’t we join in?” 

Their question led to Pesach Sheni, a second chance to connect with God. This shows that even when we feel left out or make mistakes, we can try again to find our way.

Moses is the best example of a light-bringer. Even when the people complain or his siblings challenge him, he stays humble and turns to God for help.

His faith and kindness keep the people moving forward, like a steady flame in tough times.

Lesson for Me: Like Aaron lighting the Menorah, we can spread light by being kind, hopeful, and helpful. When things get tough or we feel lost, we can choose to look for the good and keep going, just like the Israelites who got a second chance. By staying connected to God and supporting each other, we can make the world brighter.

Shabbat Shalom: May we all share light and hope wherever we go!