G-d Teaches Humility

One of the more problematic verses of the Torah, begins with the words, נעשה אדם, “Let us make man.” It was not to be understood, G-d forbid, that there was another deity, besides Hashem.

When the seventy-two wise men were placed in separate houses, and were asked to translate, all were confronted with this problematic Pasuk.

Miraculously, all seventy-two wrote, “I will make man,” instead of the literal translation of, “Let us make man.” They wanted to be certain that there would be no misinterpretations of the Torah.

Rashi explains the true intention of, “Let us make man.” Even though Hashem did not receive any help in the creation of man, He wanted to teach Derech Eretz (proper manners) and the importance of ענווה, humility. It is similar to where the one in command asks his constituents what he should do, when it is clear that he, exclusively makes all the decisions.

The Ramban wrote to his son that the key to success in this world, is acquiring humility. This is achieved by conquering anger and arrogance. Hashem wanted to give this clear message to all. There is no place in this world for arrogance, and Hashem does not tolerate such a person. He demonstrated by personal example, the importance of humility. He said, “Let us make man,” at the risk of being misunderstood.