True leadership is service, not status

Parshat Shoftim

When we think of kings or CEOs, we picture privilege: palaces, power, people waiting on them. And yes, in Judaism too, a king carries great honor. But the Torah makes one thing clear: the essence of kingship is not privilege but responsibility. The king must write his own Torah, carry it with him, and remember daily that he is accountable to something higher than himself. Leadership is not about the perks — it is about the burden.

In this week’s parsha, Shoftim, the Torah commands the Jewish people to appoint a king. But unlike the monarchies of the ancient world, the Torah’s vision of a king is radically different. He is not above the law. In fact, he is bound more tightly to it than anyone else. He must constantly remind himself that he serves the people and serves God.

The Torah sees the king as the ultimate public servant. His crown is not a symbol of entitlement but a reminder of responsibility.

It is striking that in Jewish history, the greatest leaders often resisted leadership.

• Moshe Rabbeinu argued at length that he was unfit.

• King David was overlooked even by his own family, content as a shepherd.

• Many prophets and sages carried their role with reluctance rather than ambition.

This is not a coincidence. Judaism teaches that true leadership is not about seeking the job but answering the call. Those who grasp for titles are often the least suited to carry the responsibility. Those who prefer to live quietly, serving God and community in humility, are often the ones best prepared to lead when needed.

Leadership today doesn’t necessarily mean ruling a nation. It might mean guiding your family, leading a team at work, mentoring a student, or even being the steady friend who others look to.

The question is: how do we view that leadership? Is it a platform for recognition? Or is it a responsibility to serve others?

The Torah reminds us that leadership is not about being “above” others. It is about being with them — listening, guiding, lifting, and carrying them when needed.

This week, take a moment to reflect:

• Where in my life have I been called to lead, formally or informally?

• Do I see that role as privilege, or as responsibility?

• What is one way I can lean into service rather than status?

Even small adjustments — listening more carefully, giving credit to others, taking on responsibility quietly — can shift our leadership from ego-driven to service-driven.

Parshat Shoftim reminds us that the Jewish model of leadership is not about glory or status. It is about humility, service, and accountability. The greatest leaders were those who never chased the role, but when the call came, they answered it.

And so the real measure of leadership — whether in a palace, a boardroom, or at the family table — is not the perks you receive but the responsibilities you embrace.

About the author:

Elimelech Levy is a Rabbi and Coach in Sydney Australia where he runs Chabad Youth NSW, A youth organisation that's focused on providing Jewish enrichment that's educational, fun, social ​& affordable. Elimelech received his MBA from Macquarie University in 2021 then chose to use his studies and experience to become a Results Coach and member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF)  helping people take control of their lives through establishing goals and working towards them. In 2023, Elimelech established the Knei Lecha Chover program focused on matching pairs of Rabbis around the world and providing foundational tools for them to coach each other regularly, helping them to avoid significant fees needed for professional coaching sessions.

Elimelech can be reached via his website elilevy.com.au