Shemot

Looking at Spiritual Growth

Adapted from Rav Kook, via Chanan Morrison

Moshe hid his face, since he was afraid to look at God. (Shemot/Exodus 3: 6)

Was Moshe's response at the burning bush an appropriate display of reverence? Or did it reflect a flaw in Moshe's desire to know God?

Our sages affirmed both views. Rabbi Yochanan argued that Moshe was rewarded for his reverence when his face shone with brilliant light as he descended from Mount Sinai. Rabbi Yehoshua ben Korcha, however, taught that Moshe was punished for his reticence. Because he turned away from the burning bush, he was not later permitted to see the face of God.

Rav Kook explains that this Talmudic discussion revolves around fundamental spiritual questions. How do we fulfill our spiritual potential? And thus, what should be the nature of our spiritual practice?

According to Rabbi Yehoshua, our goal is to grow intellectually by gaining knowledge of God and God's creation. When Moshe hid his face, he lost an opportunity to further his understanding of the spiritual realm. Thus, he did not have the tools to "see God's face" when his desire for God grew. According to Rabbi Yochanan, our spiritual objective is the development of ethical character traits and behaviors. At the burning bush, Moshe grew in his humility and his genuine fear of heaven. Thus he radiated light, a reflection of his inner nobility.

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