 | | Delegation is a common word used in professional circles. In fact, the ability to delegate shows great leadership, because it demonstrates that one is able and willing to trust others, and place them at the forefront of new endeavors. However, delegation is a double-edged sword. It can easily turn into a laissez-faire approach to leadership, which is really not leadership at all. If a leader simply assigns tasks but does not oversee the people working on them, if a leader merely puts people in charge so that he or she will not have to deal with a project or take on the workload, then that leader is not fully invested in their own work and as a result, the whole team may suffer. While it is true, micromanaging is not an effective form of leadership, neither is irresponsible delegation. So, how does one delegate responsibly? How does one show trust in others, while at the same time, impress upon them that “the boss is watching,” and that they are responsible for their actions? I think the character of Pharaoh in this week’s parsha can help us unpack this.
After experiencing troubling dreams, Pharaoh seeks an interpretation from his wise men and diviners but they do not satisfy the King. Finally, the cupbearer remembers Yosef and his unique ability to interpret dreams and recommends him to Pharaoh. In a flash, Yosef is sent for and brought before the most powerful man in the world. With Divine inspiration, Yosef interprets Pharaoh’s dreams, and his interpretation seems correct in the eyes of the King. However, after relaying his astounding interpretation, Yosef tells Pharaoh, “Let Pharaoh find a man of discernment and wisdom, and set him over the land of Egypt” (Bereshit 41:33). Pharaoh agrees, stating, “Since God has made all this known to you, there can be none so discerning and wise as you. You shall be in charge of my court, and by your command shall all my people be directed; only with respect to the throne shall I be superior to you” (Ibid., 41: 39-40). This is a clear example of delegation. Pharaoh trusts Yosef, and therefore, appoints him the head of this task. However, what kind of delegation is this? He tells Yosef that this project is under his control, however, “only with respect to the throne shall I be superior to you.” Is he telling Yosef, “Don’t forget, no matter how successful you may become, I am still better than you?” Is this an ego thing? A power-move?
To help understand Pharaoh’s type of delegation, we have to examine the way he appointed Yosef. According to our parsha, “And removing his signet ring from his hand, Pharaoh put it on Yosef’s hand…” (Ibid., 41:42). Why is this action so significant? While Rashi explains, “When the king gives his ring, it is a sign that the person to whom he hands it is to be second to him in rank,” the Chizkuni gives another interpretation. In the words of the Chizkuni, “Pharaoh said to himself ‘Maybe Yosef’s interpretation was only designed to rid himself of my supervision.’ This is why he entrusted him with executive power, to observe whether he would work for the benefit of the state or not. If Yosef accepted this task, Pharaoh would be convinced that he was loyal and upright, as he would know that should he fail, it would bring disastrous consequences for himself.” In other words, the giving of the ring was a sign that Yosef knew and understood that he was bound to Pharaoh – that he was not acting alone, and that everything he did had to be for the sake of the state. By giving his ring, Pharaoh delegated power and authority to Yosef, but in doing so, made it clear to him that he was accountable, being supervised, and beholden to something and someone greater than himself.
Leading a team is never easy. Personalities clash, as do professional interests and objectives. However, one thing we can all learn from Pharaoh’s actions is that in order to effectively delegate, a leader must make clear both the rewards and consequences of leadership, and that every member of the team must take responsibility for their actions, as they will impact them directly. Indeed, Pharaoh was quite active in his delegation. He did not micromanage, nor did he shirk his responsibilities as a leader. Rather, he trusted Yosef, gave him authority, but also, kept a close eye on him in order to make sure that everything he did was in the best interest of the nation. Yosef would bask in his successes but also take responsibility for any shortcomings – Pharaoh made sure Yosef understood that!
This Shabbat, may we learn a profound lesson from Pharaoh’s mode of leadership: delegate, but delegate responsibly. While not everything is your job, everything is your responsibility. Pharaoh knew this and imparted these sentiments to Yosef via the giving of his ring. May we trust those we charge with leadership roles, while at the same time, always remember that we are responsible for our actions as well. May we have the humility to listen to those who have good ideas, regardless of their station, while at the same time, remember that “the buck stops with us.” May we inspire our teams, our families and our community through demonstrating good leadership skills, and may we always seek to serve as models for others to follows, as we strive to empower one another and build a brighter future for us all.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Urim Sameach!
-Rabbi Dan
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