Embracing humility in leadership: A timeless lesson from Rosh Hashanah
As Rosh Hashanah — the Jewish New Year — approaches, Jewish people around the world will prepare to observe this significant occasion with prayers, repentance and gatherings. One of the most profound moments during the Rosh Hashanah prayer service is the Hinneni prayer, in which the Cantor, first and foremost, before launching into praying on behalf of the congregation, stands before them and humbly expresses personal remorse and acknowledges personal limitations as a leader. The prayer exemplifies a powerful act of self-awareness, as the Cantor admits imperfections and the incapacity to fully lead. This vulnerability teaches us that leaders who acknowledge their limitations and embrace humility are more effective and compassionate in their roles.
Some of the selections from the Hinneni prayer that reflect this are:
“Behold, I stand here, impoverished in good deeds, perturbed and frightened in fear (of G-d)....I have come to stand and to plead before You in behalf of Your people…who have appointed me their messenger even though I am not worthy or qualified for the task. I therefore beseech You...Almighty, Compassionate and Gracious…Eminent and Awesome… Please, help me succeed in the mission which I have undertaken to stand [before You] and to seek mercy for myself and for those who have appointed me. Do not hold them responsible for my sins, nor condemn them for my iniquities, as I am a sinner and a transgressor. Let them not be disgraced through my transgressions; may they not be ashamed of me, nor may I be ashamed of them. Accept my prayer as the prayer of one who is mature and experienced [in prayer], and as one who is respected…and may there be no impediment in my prayer.”
These raw reflections and general message of humble leadership hold relevance and wisdom for our modern world where the image of a leader often conjures thoughts of charisma, confidence and power. However, the Hinneni prayer challenges this conventional notion, reminding us that true leadership requires humility.
Humility in leadership is a virtue that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Whether in politics, business or education, humble leaders have a profound impact on their communities. By putting the needs of others before their own, they create an environment of trust and cooperation, fostering unity and understanding among diverse groups. This kind of leadership is essential in a society like ours, where polarization and division can hinder progress.
In the corporate world, humble leadership has also proven to be effective. Business leaders who acknowledge their fallibility and treat employees with respect and empathy foster a positive work culture. Such leaders empower their teams, encourage creativity, and promote a sense of ownership among employees, resulting in increased productivity and job satisfaction.
If you could have three dinner guests from all of history, who would you invite? Would they be incredible mentors, spiritual leaders or wealthy businesspeople? Rabbi Dovid Feinstein, a 20th-century Rabbi and leader, answered that question by sharing that he would like to invite three poor people. It didn't matter who they were, just three people who would need him. His whole mindset was how he could help someone else. It was not about how he could further himself financially, spiritually or politically; it was about how he could genuinely help others. That is humble leadership — the focus on serving others.
In our daily lives, the leaders we encounter engender more trust when we feel they are willing to admit fault, right their own wrongs and show us their humanity and humility. Compassion and standing up for us goes a long way as well.
Rosh Hashanah's Hinneni prayer conveys a timeless message on the importance of humility in leadership. It highlights the transformative power of self-awareness and empathy in various aspects of life. Embracing humility allows leaders to bridge divides, inspire collaboration, and cultivate an environment of understanding and unity. As Jews around the world observe Rosh Hashanah in mid-September, let us all reflect on this essential lesson and strive to foster a society where humility in leadership is valued and embraced, contributing to a more compassionate, inclusive and prosperous world for everyone. One where instead of looking out just for ourselves, we are truly looking out for the people we are leading.
Rabbi Benny Berlin is the rabbi of BACH Jewish Center in Long Beach, New York.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Rosh Hashanah offers timeless lessons in humility
