“Be a light, not a judge. Be a model, not a critic” – Stephen Covey

When is criticism constructive? And when is it destructive and demoralizing? The daughters of Zelophehad, in parshat Pinchas, demonstrate how to lead positive change. They are a much needed model for today.

After the Torah describes how the land of Israel will be divided, the daughters of Zelophehad approach Moshe and request an inheritance in Israel, as they have no brothers to inherit land. The commentaries characterize them as having great “chibbah” (love) for Israel. The Talmud goes even further, describing them as “darshaniyot” (interpreters), tzidkaniyot (righteous) and “chachmaniyot” (wise). How do we see these qualities in their behavior?

The daughters emphasize that their father “died by sin in the midbar,” but not as a part of Korah’s congregation. Rashi explains that they emphasized that while their father sinned, he did not lead others to sin like Korah. Also, Korah spread unfounded criticism and refused to engage in dialogue with Moshe.

The midrash also contrasts the daughters of Zelophehad with the spies, who slandered the Land of Israel and spread negativity among the nation. Their words led to catastrophe for that generation. The midrash views the daughters’ words as the opposite of the language that previously led to disasters in Bamidbar. They are proactive. They embrace dialogue and use positive language by saying: “We want to be part of this too!”

Hashem’s response is “The daughters speak justly,” connoting deep affirmation. After the earlier stories of people who found ways to criticize and sow discord, these five women model proactivity, dialogue, positivity, and love of the Land of Israel. When we speak up for justice or work to effect change let’s follow in the footsteps of b’not Zelophehad. Shabbat Shalom🇮🇱- Karen Miller Jackson