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Numbers 1:13 - Tribal leader's divine appointment?

Numbers 1:13 - במדבר 1:13

Hebrew Text

לְאָשֵׁר פַּגְעִיאֵל בֶּן־עָכְרָן׃

English Translation

Of Asher; Pag῾i᾽el the son of ῾Okhran.

Transliteration

Le'Asher pagi'el ben-okhran

Hebrew Leining Text

לְאָשֵׁ֕ר פַּגְעִיאֵ֖ל בֶּן־עׇכְרָֽן׃
לְאָשֵׁ֕ר פַּגְעִיאֵ֖ל בֶּן־עׇכְרָֽן׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Introduction to the Verse

The verse "לְאָשֵׁר פַּגְעִיאֵל בֶּן־עָכְרָן" (Of Asher; Pag῾i᾽el the son of ῾Okhran) appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 1:13 as part of the census of the Israelites in the wilderness. It identifies Pagiel ben Ochran as the representative of the tribe of Asher.

Meaning of the Names

  • Pagiel (פַּגְעִיאֵל): The name can be broken into two parts: "Pagia" (encounter) and "El" (G-d). Rashi suggests that the name implies one who "encounters G-d" or is devoted to divine service. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) connects it to prayer, as "pagia" can also mean to plead or supplicate.
  • Ochran (עָכְרָן): The root עכר can mean "to disturb" or "to trouble." Some commentators, like the Malbim, explain that this name may hint at a past challenge or struggle that was overcome, leading to spiritual growth.

Role of Pagiel in the Wilderness

Pagiel served as the nasi (prince or leader) of Asher during the wilderness journey. According to the Talmud (Horayot 10b), the tribal leaders were chosen for their wisdom, righteousness, and ability to guide their people. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:7) emphasizes that each leader was uniquely suited to represent their tribe's character.

The Tribe of Asher's Significance

Asher was known for its prosperity and agricultural blessings, as foretold by Yaakov (Bereishit 49:20) and Moshe (Devarim 33:24). Pagiel, as their leader, embodied these traits—possibly symbolizing a balance between material success and spiritual devotion. The Kli Yakar notes that Asher's role in providing oil for the Mishkan (as per Bamidbar 7:84-89) reflects their connection to illuminating holiness, a task overseen by Pagiel.

Lessons from Pagiel's Leadership

  • Prayer and Action: His name suggests a leader who combined prayer ("Pagia") with decisive leadership, teaching that true service requires both divine connection and practical effort.
  • Overcoming Challenges: The name "Ochran" may remind us that even those from troubled backgrounds can rise to greatness, as seen in Pagiel's role.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Pagiel ben Ochran mentioned in Numbers 1:13?
A: Pagiel ben Ochran was the leader of the tribe of Asher appointed by Hashem to assist Moses and Aaron in counting the Israelites in the wilderness (Bamidbar 1:13). Rashi explains that these tribal leaders were distinguished men chosen for their wisdom and stature.
Q: Why does the Torah list the names of the tribal leaders in Numbers 1?
A: The Torah lists these leaders to show the importance of each tribe's representation during the census. Ramban teaches that listing them by name gives honor to these righteous men who helped organize Israel in the desert, showing that every tribe had its own unique role in Klal Yisrael.
Q: What is the significance of Asher having a leader named Pagiel?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:7) notes that each leader's name reflected their tribe's character. 'Pagiel' contains the word 'pegi'a' (encounter), hinting at Asher's future role in providing oil for the Menorah (as Asher's territory was rich in olives), enabling people to 'encounter' the light of the Beit Hamikdash.
Q: How does the selection of tribal leaders apply to us today?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 22b) learns from here that communal leaders must be appointed through proper channels with divine approval. Just as Pagiel was chosen by Hashem, today's Jewish leaders must be selected based on Torah values, wisdom, and commitment to the community's welfare.