Jewish Teachings Urge Kings and Individuals to Remember Humble Beginnings for Success

The Torah portion Shoftim includes the "King's Portion," which offers extensive guidance for Israelite kings and has inspired numerous studies. A Hasidic midrash on the verse describing a king "when he sits on his royal throne" teaches a profound lesson applicable not only to monarchs but to anyone embarking on a new life chapter.

The midrash recounts how Rabbi Shlomo Mesalon, reluctantly crowned leader of the Hasidim, felt bitter and broken-hearted about his role. Rabbi Tuvia Landa, son-in-law of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Strikov, advised him to always imagine himself in the moment of his coronation, maintaining humility and a broken heart throughout his reign. This attitude honors God as the true source of strength and reminds the king that his power is not solely his own.

This teaching extends beyond kingship to anyone starting a new role or life phase, such as marriage. The idea is to recall the initial day of commitment with its hopes and intentions, sustaining that spirit daily to ensure continued success and sincerity.

The author shares a personal note, recalling hearing this midrash for the first time from Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, the Chief Rabbi of Israel and Tel Aviv-Jaffa, during his wedding ceremony. He reflects on this lesson annually on his wedding anniversary, which this year coincided with the Shofetim Torah portion.

This Hasidic insight encourages maintaining humility and gratitude to God as keys to leadership and personal growth.