Parsha Points To Ponder

1)Why does the Torah use the language of TZAV, a term reserved for mitzvot which require extra alacrity and focus, for the command to send impure people from the camp? (5:2)

2)Why did two tribal leaders share one calf instead of each one bringing their own as part of the consecration of the Mishkan? (7:3)

3)Why does the Torah simply relate that Nachshon was OF THE TRIBE OF YEHUDA (7:12) instead of identifying him as NASI of the tribe of Yehuda as it does regarding the leaders of each of the other tribes? (see for example 7:18and 24)

ANSWERS:

1)The Netziv answers that sending people from the camp was not an easy thing to do. It required uprooting them from their families and friends and led to a significant period of time in discomfort and possible loneliness. Thus, the term TZAV, encouraged the people to overcome their emotions and to perform this command regardless of their feelings.

2)The Seforno explains that this command demonstrated that this cooperation and sharing was required in the initial process to bring G-D’s Presence to the Mishkan and teaches that His continued Presence in the Mishkan was dependent on the Jews functioning with unity and love towards one another.

3)The Chizkuni teaches that the Torah goes out of its way to identify every other tribal leader as NASI to give them a boost since they willingly lowered themselves and did not bring their offerings first. Nachshon, who brought his offerings first, needed to be humbled somewhat to prevent him from feeling haughty since he offered first. Thus, the term NASI was omitted.

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