From the Rabbi’s Desk
Rabbi Manes Kogan
Shemini (Short Devar Torah)
At the beginning of our Parsha we find Moshe encouraging his brother Aharon to come near to the Mizbayach (Altar) and begin his service as Kohain Gadol, Vayikra 9:7.
Rashi comments that Aharon was embarrassed to do so and Moshe asks him why. "It is for this that you have been chosen," says Moshe.
Our sages elaborate on what is meant by the words 'it is for this'. It is for this, for the very fact that you are embarrassed and consider yourself unworthy, for this reason you have been chosen. Your humility is what makes you worthy.