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Genesis 49:16 - Dan's righteous leadership role

Genesis 49:16 - בראשית 49:16

Hebrew Text

דָּן יָדִין עַמּוֹ כְּאַחַד שִׁבְטֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Yisra᾽el.

Transliteration

Dan yadin amo ke'echad shivtei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

דָּ֖ן יָדִ֣ין עַמּ֑וֹ כְּאַחַ֖ד שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
דָּ֖ן יָדִ֣ין עַמּ֑וֹ כְּאַחַ֖ד שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in Yaakov's Blessing

The verse "Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Yisra᾽el" (Bereishit 49:16) appears in Yaakov Avinu's prophetic blessings to his sons before his passing. Rashi explains that this refers to the tribe of Dan producing judges who would lead and deliver Bnei Yisrael, particularly Shimshon (Samson), who arose from Dan.

Dan's Role as a Judge

Ramban (Nachmanides) elaborates that Dan's judicial role was unique—unlike other tribes whose leadership was tied to kingship or priesthood, Dan's distinction was through mishpat (justice). The phrase "as one of the tribes of Yisra᾽el" implies equality; though Dan was born from Bilhah (a maidservant), his tribe’s role was no less significant than those born from Leah or Rachel.

Shimshon as Fulfillment

The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 98:14) connects this verse to Shimshon, who judged Israel for 20 years (Shoftim 16:31). Despite his personal flaws, Shimshon’s strength and leadership against the Pelishtim (Philistines) exemplified Dan’s mission. The Talmud (Sotah 10a) notes that Shimshon’s name reflects shemesh (sun), symbolizing his radiant role in delivering justice.

Symbolism of the Serpent

Yaakov later compares Dan to a nachash (serpent) (Bereishit 49:17). The Kli Yakar explains this duality: a judge must be wise like a serpent (strategic) yet righteous, striking only when necessary. The tribe of Dan thus embodied both justice and vigilance.

Legacy in the Wilderness

In Bamidbar (2:25), Dan’s camp traveled last during the Israelites’ journeys. The Ohr HaChaim suggests this positioned Dan as a "judge" protecting the rear—ensuring no stragglers were left behind, further fulfilling their tribal destiny.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'Dan shall judge his people' mean in Genesis 49:16?
A: This verse is part of Yaakov's blessings to his sons before his passing. Rashi explains that the tribe of Dan would produce judges who would lead and deliver justice for the Jewish people, such as Shimshon (Samson), who came from the tribe of Dan and judged Israel (Judges 13:2). The phrase 'as one of the tribes of Israel' emphasizes that Dan's role in leadership was equal to the other tribes.
Q: Why is the tribe of Dan singled out for judging in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 98:4) teaches that Dan was given this role because he had the quality of righteous judgment. Additionally, the tribe of Dan was often positioned at the rear during the Israelites' travels in the wilderness (Numbers 2:25), symbolizing their role in protecting and ensuring justice for all, even those who might fall behind.
Q: How does the blessing to Dan apply to us today?
A: The verse teaches the importance of fair leadership and justice in Jewish life. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 2:7) emphasizes that judges must be wise, humble, and righteous—qualities embodied by the tribe of Dan. Today, we apply this by valuing Torah-based justice and ethical leadership in our communities.
Q: What is the significance of Dan being 'as one of the tribes of Israel'?
A: This phrase shows that despite Dan being the son of Bilhah (Rachel's maidservant), his tribe was given equal status among the tribes of Israel. The Talmud (Berachot 16b) teaches that true justice elevates all people, and Dan's inclusion highlights that righteousness—not lineage alone—determines one's role in the Jewish nation.