קהלת, פרק י׳, פסוק י״ז

A nation thrives and achieves true prosperity when its leadership is rooted in responsibility, maturity, and self-control. Ideal governance is marked by clear priorities, where the needs of the people and the pursuit of wisdom take precedence over personal indulgence. A land is truly fortunate and worthy of praise when its ruler possesses strong moral character and acts with maturity [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Such a leader is often described as someone born of greatness [מצודת ציון, אבן עזרא]. Some explain this noble status conceptually, comparing it to the color white or to pure light, which symbolizes greatness and elevated status, in contrast to darkness, which represents lesser individuals [אבן עזרא]. Others simply understand this to mean a king who is deeply wise [צאינה וראינה].

Under this kind of leadership, the government ministers also conduct themselves with strict discipline. Rather than rushing to eat upon waking, they wait for the appropriate time. They prioritize their public duties, ensuring they judge the people and manage the affairs of the state before sitting down for a meal [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. When these leaders do eat, their meals are an exercise in strength rather than indulgence. They consume only what is necessary to nourish their bodies and sustain their energy for the work ahead, avoiding gluttony and the pursuit of physical pleasure [אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Some interpret this strength in a practical sense, noting that the ministers focus their energy on military strategy and national defense [מצודת דוד]. However, the primary approach among commentators is that this strength refers to a superior spiritual power—specifically, a deep dedication to wisdom, understanding, and the study of Torah [רש״י, רלב״ג, צאינה וראינה]. Consequently, these leaders distance themselves from destructive habits, entirely avoiding heavy drinking and intoxication [מצודת ציון, רלב״ג, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, this avoidance of drunkenness can be understood more broadly as an avoidance of weakness and lowliness, serving as the exact opposite of the strength and discipline that characterize their rule [אבן עזרא].

A historical model of this ideal leadership is found in the generation of King Hezekiah of Judah. He lived modestly, dedicated himself to the spiritual strength of Torah study, and avoided indulgence. Thanks to his moral leadership, the land experienced great joy and security, ultimately leading to the downfall of King Sennacherib of Assyria before he could bring any harm to the Israelites [תעלומות חכמה].