This oil was used to light the Menora (candelabra) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Why did it need to be pure and beaten for light?

The task relating to the Menora were in the domain of Aharon (Aaron) and his descendents the Cohanim (priests). Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, a prominent 20^th century Rabbinic and leader, suggests that the pure oil, with no dregs allowed, symbolised the national role that Aharon and his descendants would play. As leaders of the people, all of their actions had to be good and appropriate, setting an example to the people.

Leaders must strive for clarity, lest people may speculate as to what the leaders say or do. Such speculation can have negative and even false results, to the detriments of all involved. For example, anybody who has played Chinese whispers or has suffered from gossip will understand this, especially if they have felt hurt by the gossip or have missed out on an opportunity through listening to falsehood.

Although gossip is negative, leaders nonetheless have an obligation to act and talk clearly so that they do not give people the chance to misconstrue their words. As the Mishna in Pirkei Avot (1:11) says, scholars should be careful with their words. This injunction also applies to their deeds.

Similarly, the Menora which was in the domain of the Cohanim who were leaders and teachers of the nation, could only use pure oil for its light, reflecting the task of those who looked after it. The leaders could take instruction and inspiration from looking at the Menora.