Self Esteem

We learn from the incident of Yehuda and Tamar, how Yehuda emerged as the leader of all of the brothers. He ultimately showed that he was worthy of the monarchy.

Rabbi Twerski attributes Yehuda’s special character from his mother, Leah. When he was born, she said, הפעם אודה את ה׳, “This time I will thank Hashem.”

The word, אודה, actually has two meanings. Aside from its meaning of thankfulness as in מודה אני לפניך, it can also be connected to וידוי, confession.

This explains how Yehuda owned up to his behavior with Tamar. His mother taught that it is not only the proper thing to do, but it is okay to do so.

Rabbi Twerski felt that the ability to admit one’s errors, as well as being able to give gratitude, is a reflection of an individual’s self esteem.

People with low self esteem are afraid to apologize for their bad behavior, and admit when they are wrong, is because they feel they will be beholden to that person. They will feel equally beholden when they thank a person for his kindness. All of this reflects a low level of self esteem.

The future Davidic dynasty, had to come from leaders that possessed humility and a good self esteem. Yehuda possessed these qualities that he learned from his mother.