Leadership Is A Mutual Contractual Assignment

Jun 16, 2026, 8:30 AM

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Leadership Is A Mutual Contractual Assignment

(Reflections on the Haftorah for Torah Portion Korach)

( I Samuel 11 :14-15 and 12 :1-22 )

A leader, selected by his people, endorsed by G-d,

Deserves loyalty for the responsibility he bears.

While in office, mutiny and anarchy

Have no legitimate place as elections confirm position.

What is expected of people towards the king?

Recognition of bestowed authority

In decision -making for the needs of the people,

As a whole and in constituent parts,

In times of challenge for short and long term goals.

The obligations of the king require guidance,

Practical, spiritual, deliberated in time

To foresee outcome as to scenarios,

Addressed most fittingly through wise counsel.

It is a mutual contractual assignment,

Necessitating forbearance and restraint,

Both requiring self-discipline, removed from ego.

About the Author

Michel M.J. Shore is a retired judge of the Federal Court of Canada and recently made a home in Israel. He is the writer of several published books and poetry collections.