Leadership in Crisis

Leadership in crisis is not just about making decisions—it’s about carrying the weight of those decisions. In times of war, economic turmoil, or social upheaval, leaders are often forced into roles they never expected, making choices that will define history. As I reflect on current global events, conflicts, past wars, and leadership responsibilities, I am reminded of the sacred trust that leadership represents.

Sacred Garments and the Betrayal of Moral Responsibility

This week’s Torah portion, Tetzaveh, speaks of the sacred garments worn by the priests, a symbol of their duty to serve the people with integrity and humility. Leadership, too, is a sacred trust. When the symbols of authority become corrupt, they lose their power to inspire and protect. True leadership is not about titles, wealth, or status; it is about moral courage, dedication to justice, and a willingness to bear the burdens of responsibility.

Looking at today’s political landscape, the world is rife with hypocrisy. The Biden administration’s handling of Gaza and Israel, the $2.1 billion set aside for humanitarian aid without clear accountability, and the shifting priorities in Ukraine all raise questions about the true motives behind political decisions. Leadership requires consistency, responsibility, and a willingness to be held accountable—not just to political interests but to the people whose lives are affected by these policies.

Symbols of Power: The Coat of Arms Then and Now

Historically, symbols of power—sacred garments, crowns, or coats of arms—have represented authority. In medieval times, coats of arms were a mark of noble blood, military might, and divine right. The church had cardinals, kings had armies, and the common people had little say.

Not much has changed. Today’s coat of arms is wealth and influence. The modern oligarchs are not kings or lords, but tech billionaires and corporate elites—Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos. They wield more power than many governments, influencing global economies, technological advancements, and social discourse. The tactics have changed, but their control remains.

Lincoln and Churchill: Leadership in the Fires of War

In thinking about leadership in crisis, I picked up a book that was prepared for a workshop on Lincoln and Churchill at war. Their stories made me reflect on how different leaders have shaped history—sometimes at great cost, sometimes through sheer moral resolve.

Before delving into a broader analysis of world leaders (past and present), let’s examine two of history’s most iconic figures in crisis: Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill.

Abraham Lincoln: The Price of Ending Slavery

Lincoln rose from humble beginnings, facing numerous setbacks before finally reaching the presidency. His leadership during the American Civil War was defined by his decision to abolish slavery, a decision that ultimately ended the war but at a staggering cost—over 600,000 American lives lost in battle and disease.

Was it the right decision? Was the cost of life worth it? Could there have been another way? Perhaps. But history is not written in hypotheticals. Lincoln’s leadership ensured that America remained one nation and that the moral stain of slavery was removed from its laws. He was a deeply divisive leader in his time, hated by many, yet history now sees him as one of the greatest presidents.

Winston Churchill: The Right Man, Not the Popular One

Churchill was born into privilege but took an unconventional path—soldier, war correspondent, and politician. When World War II broke out, he was the only leader in Britain who recognized Hitler for what he was: pure evil. His speeches inspired a nation, his resolve stiffened the British resistance, and his alliances with the U.S. and the Soviet Union ensured that Hitler’s war machine was ultimately defeated.

But Churchill was not always loved. He was voted out of office after the war. Some saw him as stubborn, difficult, and out of touch. While he is remembered for helping defeat Nazi Germany, his policies in British colonies, particularly in India, where millions died due to mismanaged famine, show the darker side of his legacy. Like Lincoln, he was a man of the moment but not necessarily the most popular man of his time.

Leadership in Crisis: A Historical Perspective

History has been shaped by leaders who rose to power during war, internal strife, or global crises. Some left legacies of justice and progress, while others are remembered for destruction and tyranny.

Moses: The Legacy of Monotheism, Ethics, and Law

Moses was not just a prophet and leader; he redefined civilization itself. His leadership during the Exodus from Egypt was just one aspect of his legacy. His greatest contribution to history was the revolutionary moral and legal system he introduced through the Torah.

1. The Birth of Monotheism

Before Moses, the world was dominated by polytheism. Moses introduced the radical idea of monotheism, laying the foundation for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

2. Ethics and Moral Responsibility

The Torah introduced the world to the first written moral code, emphasizing human dignity, justice, and compassion. The Ten Commandments shaped Western morality and legal traditions.

3. A System of Laws for a Just Society

Moses’ legal system was the first to apply laws equally to rulers and commoners, influencing Roman law, English common law, and modern democracy.

4. The Concept of Shabbat: The First Social Revolution

Moses introduced Shabbat, the world’s first labour law—a day of rest for all people. This idea influenced labour rights, the five-day workweek, and social justice movements.

Moses’ impact was not just religious but foundational to civilization itself. No leader on this list has influenced humanity’s spiritual, moral, and legal frameworks as much as Moses.

 Comparing Moses to Other Leaders

Below is an analysis of leaders across history, evaluating their legacy, the number of lives lost by their rule, and their moral contribution.

Table prepared by Chat GPT

Final Thoughts: The Cost of Leadership

History teaches us that leadership in crisis is never simple. Some leaders have been revered, others reviled. Some brought progress, others destruction. Moses stands apart because his legacy was not built on war, conquest, or political dominance but on justice, morality, and laws that shaped civilization.

As we face modern conflicts—from Ukraine to the Middle East, from economic crises to the rise of authoritarianism—one question remains:

Who will history judge as the leaders who rose to the occasion, and who will be remembered as those who failed?

Featured Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywcNgWjo6U8

Peace Deal Illusion | Israel’s Neighbours & Their True Intentions

The Video by Israel: State of a Nation with Eylon Levy

‘Israel’s regional threats are shifting fast—and the stakes have never been higher. Former Israeli diplomat and Knesset member Ruth Wasserman-Lande joins Eylon Levy to analyze the instability on Israel’s borders and the global forces reshaping the Middle East after October 7.

With decades of experience in Arab affairs, diplomacy, and security, Wasserman-Lande offers unique insights into:

The shifting Middle East – Why October 7 wasn’t just an attack on Israel, but a turning point for the region.

Egypt’s military buildup – Why is Cairo violating its peace treaty with Israel?

The rise of radical Islam – How both Sunni and Shia extremists are competing for dominance.

Lebanon & Hezbollah – Can Lebanon reclaim its sovereignty, or is Iran too deeply entrenched?

Jordan’s fragile future – Is Israel’s longest, quietest border now its most unpredictable?

The myth of peace with Palestinians – Why a two-state solution could further destabilize the region.

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