Integrity and Compassion
Rabbinic literature also viewed Moses' role as shepherd as being significant. It was in this context that he exhibited the requisite qualities of leadership. But more than proving his power of control and organizational skills, as a shepherd that Moses demonstrated his integrity, compassion and sensitivity.
Since shepherds are notorious for trespassing on the property of others, the midrash accentuates Moses' honesty. Even alone with the sheep on the mountains of Midian, the sterling character of Moses came shining through. The Rabbis add another indispensable dimension of leadership:Now Moses was tending the flock. Before God confers greatness on a man he first tests him in a small matter and then promotes him to greatness...in the case of Moses it says: And he drove the flock into the wilderness – in order to keep them from despoiling the fields of others. (Exodus Rabbah 2:3)
The Lord trieth the righteous. By what does he try him? By tending the flocks...Moses was tested by God through sheep. Our Rabbis said that when Moses our teacher, peace be upon him, was tending the flock of Jethro in the wilderness, a little kid escaped from him. He ran after it until it reached a shady place. When it reached a shady place, there appeared to view a pool of water and the kid stopped to drink. When Moses approached it, he said: 'I did not know that you ran away because of thirst; you must be weary.' So he placed the kid on his shoulder and walked away. Thereupon God said: 'Because thou hast mercy in leading the flock of a mortal, thou wilt assuredly tend my flock Israel.' Hence Now Moses was tending the flock. (Exodus Rabbah 2:2)
This charming anecdote presents Moses as a man of compassion. Though he had many sheep in his charge, he expressed his tender care for the thirsty kid who had gone astray. The analogy will find expression in Moses' great love and concern for the flock of Israel, which he will lead with integrity and compassion.
