Sibling Rivalry

It is kind of strange to hear that even Moses was criticised by his siblings (Numbers Chapter 12). G-d did not like it either. The entire episode raises many questions, and many wonderful ideas have been learnt from this story. Here is one:

Unfortunately, some of the worst criticism we encounter in life comes from close family members. The notion that "brothers" got each other's back is not a Biblical idea. Cain and Abel were brothers. So were Joseph & his brothers. The list is endless. There is a reason for this.

Siblings are natural rivals. Rivalry breeds competition, and competition brings envy. Envy can make us better by making us work harder. But if one is unable to, or too lazy or intimidated to compete, there is another choice: "Criticize." Knock the other down.

But this is the easy way out. The Torah is clear about what it thinks of people who tear down others. They end up disfranchising themselves, and end up alone.

On the opposite extreme we have Moses. A person with all the ability, yet enough humility to appreciate and root for others' success.

Read Numbers Chapter 12 again.