In Parshat Vayikra, we read about the Korbanot (sacrifices) that need to be brought after a person transgresses. Not only the lay people are expected to bring the korban, the rulers are expected to bring the korbanot as well.
In Vayikra 4:22 we read: “When a Nasi, a ruler, sins and does inadvertently something against any of the commandments of the Lord his God concerning things which should not be done and has incurred guilt, if the sin that he committed becomes known to him, he shall bring his offering, a male goat, unblemished.”
The Mishna in Horayot 10a teaches: “Who is a Nasi? It is a king!”
Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook (Shu”t Mishpat Kohen) taught that the leaders of Israel today would also be in the category of kings.
We learn from Rav Kook that just as we need to respect a king of Israel, so too must we respect the members of the government in the Land of Israel.
Rav David Avraham Spector explains that Eliyahu HaNavi showed respect for King Achav, even after God’s spiritual victory on Mount Carmel against the 300 prophets of the Ba’al.
In Melachim I, 18:46 we read: “The hand of God was upon Eliyahu, and he girded his loins and ran before Achav until the approach of Yizrael.”
Rashi quotes the Targum: A spirit of strength from before God came upon Eliyahu.
Achav was riding home alone. His supporters probably left him when they saw that HaShem is the true God. Since the king was alone, Eliyahu wanted to show him respect by running before his chariot. God therefore gave Eliyahu extra strength and energy in order to keep up with the chariot.
Rav Hirsch explains that by Eliyahu running before the king’s chariot, he showed how little animosity he felt towards Achav.
We have a lot to learn from Eliyahu HaNavi who still showed respect for Achav despite his leading the nation astray by encouraging idol worship.
Jewish tradition teaches that Eliyahu prays for God’s mercy on Israel and that he is often God’s hidden emissary on earth to help His people. As well, Eliyahu will be the one to proclaim the arrival of the Mashiach.
As we open the door for Eliyahu at our Pesach seder, let’s remember that Eliyahu did not hold grudges and still showed respect for one of our nation’s worst leaders. May we have the strength to emulate Eliyahu and show respect for leaders that we may not agree with.
