Moshe Rabbeinu was doing what was right and proper. Despite the fact that this individual was wicked, he held the position of king, so Moshe showed respect for the institution of leadership. Even though that institution was now being used to pursue wicked ends, the institution itself was still worthy of respect, and therefore Moshe acted accordingly.
What This Means to Us
This message is particularly relevant in our time. Historically, kings viewed their populations as sources of taxes and foot soldiers – vehicles by which to expand their fame and fortune. Rare was the king who actually ruled for the good of his people.
We find ourselves in very different conditions, with a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” Whether we agree with every policy or not, it is an unprecedented advance for the good of man, a regime run for the good of the citizens of that land.
To us as Jews, this is especially poignant. For almost 2,000 years we have wandered from county to country, oppression to oppression, expulsion to expulsion. We now find ourselves welcome members of American society. We are allowed to operate our own schools in the manner we see fit. We are allowed to worship in the way we feel appropriate. We are allowed to conduct our lives in the way we so choose. The only request made upon us is to abide by the laws of the land.
In the history of our long exile, we have never had it this good. Therefore, it is especially incumbent upon us to respect this land, obey its laws, pay homage to its leaders, and appreciate the great blessing we enjoy in living in this country.