Ideal Jewish King

The subject of a Jewish king is a bit puzzling. On the one hand, the Torah gives specific instructions in appointing a king in Israel. But, on the other hand, we learn of the Prophet Samuel reprimanding the nation for asking for a king.

Samuel did not approve of the motivation in asking for a king. He felt that they were doing this so that they could be like all of the other nations. They wanted a king for the wrong reason.

The intention of the Torah was to describe the ideal king of an ideal society. It would be democratic provided that decisions did not contradict the Torah. The king’s job was to be a spiritual motivator. While his position demanded great respect by the nation, he was meant to remain humble.

He had a small Torah scroll placed on his arm so that not only he would not slack off in his religious observance, but he made sure to keep the general public on their toes.

I was recently shown a Torah that was written for this purpose. It came at a cost of $260,000 because it required painstaking, meticulous writing. It is another sign that we are ready for the Melech Hamashiach to come and rebuild the Third Temple. His miniature Torah scroll awaits him. And we long for him and the true justice that will come with his rule. He will fulfill the true calling of a G-d fearing king of Israel.