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Did Moshe Speak Incorrectly to HaShem? \ Parashat Shemot
D'var Torah: "And Moshe returned to HaShem and said, 'Why have you done badly to this people, why have you sent me? From the time I came to Pharaoh to speak in Your Name he did evil to this people, but You did not rescue Your people'" (Shemot 5:22). It is hard to understand how Moshe Rabenu spoke so boldly to HaShem, questioning HaShem's justice in bringing such harm to Klal Yisrael? However, let us consider that "Moshe was the humblest man on the face of the earth." Moreover, when HaShem charged Moshe to order Pharaoh to free Klal Yisrael from slavery, Moshe did not feel he was worthy of the task. In this light, Moshe did not question HaShem's fairness, rather he blamed himself for the troubles: "Why have You done badly to this people, why did you send me? The oppression worsened as a result of my demand to Pharaoh to free Klal Yisrael. Therefore, it must be due to my total unworthiness to redeem them." Moshe Rabenu interpreted the difficulties that emerged as a sign for him to do Teshuvah (repent). The merit of his repentance awakened HaShem's mercy and He set the great redemption into motion, "Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh, for through a strong arm he will send them forth, and with a strong hand he will drive them from his land." Moral: Every hardship and challenge is a reminder to improve ourselves. Indeed, the Teshuvah of one person holds the merit to awaken the redemption for all Klal Yisrael.
Application: The mark of humility is the awareness that we are not perfect, we have plenty of room for improvement. Whenever you are faced with a challenge or hardship, take it as an impetus to improve. Reflect on how you can improve your character traits, your deeds, and even your thoughts. Take specific steps of change. Be confident that HaShem recognizes your Teshuvah, and He will bring great blessing to you and the entire Klal Yisrael. (Based on the commentary of the Bat Ayin) We're on a search! Looking for a Shul or community to support the seminal Salant Kollel and Mussar Centre. AdoptAKollel.org makes it easy. Please contact Rabbi Zvi Miller for further information, at salantorg@gmail.com Thank you! | 
