Moses

Q: Why is Moses called Moshe Rabbenu?

A:  Biblical heroes who rose to leadership roles during their lives were each given titles suitable for the role they fulfilled.  Thus we call Abraham Isaac and Jacob -- the founders of Judaism -- patriarchs. Similarly, their counterparts, instrumental in creating the Jewish lifestyle we term matriarchs.

Joseph is called “ha-tzaddik” because of his ability to overcome temptation and righteousness. You recall that Joseph grew up in a prosperous Egypt as vizier to the Pharaoh. Still, he never forgot his roots. He never neglected the cause and needs of his people. Another test he successfully transcended was when Potiphar’s wife tempted him and he turned away.

Moses was a great teacher of Torah. He expounded the Law to the people and helped create the apparatus for interpreting the Holy One’s will.  A teacher par excellence, Moses is called Rabbenu, which means “our teacher.”