Parashat Bamidbar 5785

by Rabbi Margie Cella

The fourth book of the Torah opens at Mt. Sinai, two years after the nation of Israel left Egypt; God has decided that it is time for them to head to Canaan. In preparation for the journey, God instructs Moses and Aaron to take a census of the fighting men in each of the tribes from age 20 and up, who would constitute the standing army of the nation. The Levites would be responsible for the care of the Tabernacle, dismantling, carrying, and reassembling it each time the nation moved. Since they were involved in the religious life of the people, they were excluded from this census and counted separately.

Next, Moses and Aaron received instructions from God on how to set up the camp. The Levites and the Tabernacle were to be at the center of the camp, always surrounded and protected by the other tribes. Judah, Issachar, and Zevulon camped on the east side of the Tabernacle, Reuven, Shimon, and Gad on the south. The half-tribes of Ephraim and Menasseh, along with Benjamin, camped on the west, Dan, Asher, and Naphtali on the north. When God gave the sign to move to a new place, lifting the cloud from off the Tabernacle, the nation was instructed to maintain this formation as they traveled in the desert, creating an image of strength. Each person and tribe knew their designated place as they marched together, united as one nation with one singular mission: to serve God, and travel to the promised land.

Today, we no longer have tribes, but we have Jews of many different denominations and ethnicities. As we face increasing anti-semitism in our world, it is more important than ever for us to remain united in purpose, lifting each other up and giving each other strength.

Am Yisrael Chai! All people of Israel Live!