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Numbers 1:29 - Yissakhar's scholarly multitude counted

Numbers 1:29 - במדבר 1:29

Hebrew Text

פְּקֻדֵיהֶם לְמַטֵּה יִשָּׂשכָר אַרְבָּעָה וַחֲמִשִּׁים אֶלֶף וְאַרְבַּע מֵאוֹת׃

English Translation

those that were numbered of them, of the tribe of Yissakhar, were fifty four thousand, four hundred.

Transliteration

Pekudeihem lemateh Yissakhar arba'a vachamishim elef ve'arba me'ot.

Hebrew Leining Text

פְּקֻדֵיהֶ֖ם לְמַטֵּ֣ה יִשָּׂשכָ֑ר אַרְבָּעָ֧ה וַחֲמִשִּׁ֛ים אֶ֖לֶף וְאַרְבַּ֥ע מֵאֽוֹת׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
פְּקֻדֵיהֶ֖ם לְמַטֵּ֣ה יִשָּׂשכָ֑ר אַרְבָּעָ֧ה וַחֲמִשִּׁ֛ים אֶ֖לֶף וְאַרְבַּ֥ע מֵאֽוֹת׃ {פ}

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Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

The verse (Bamidbar 1:29) records the census count of the tribe of Yissakhar during the wilderness journey. This enumeration was part of the broader tally of Israelite men aged 20 and older, fit for military service, as commanded by Hashem (Bamidbar 1:2-3).

Numerical Significance

Rashi notes that Yissakhar's count of 54,400 was substantial compared to other tribes. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:7) connects this to Yissakhar's dedication to Torah study, as Yaakov's blessing (Bereishit 49:14-15) portrays them as scholars who bore the "yoke of Torah." Their material sustenance from Zevulun's commerce (Devarim 33:18) allowed their numbers to flourish.

Comparative Tribal Counts

  • The Sforno observes that Yissakhar's population exceeded Zevulun's (57,400 vs. 54,400), suggesting that Torah study brings greater spiritual and physical prosperity.
  • Rabbi Chaim ibn Attar (Ohr HaChaim) highlights that despite being smaller than Yehuda or Dan, Yissakhar's quality of Torah scholarship gave them outsized influence in Klal Yisrael.

Gematria Insight

The Baal HaTurim points out that the numerical value of "Yissakhar" (יִשָּׂשכָר) is 830 (10+300+20+300+200), symbolizing completeness in Torah—as the 613 mitzvot plus the 217 prohibitions derived through hermeneutics (Makot 23b).

Historical Continuity

The Kli Yakar emphasizes that this census established Yissakhar's enduring role: In Divrei Hayamim I (12:33), they are again noted for Torah wisdom during David's reign, showing how their wilderness identity persisted through generations.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the number of people in the tribe of Yissakhar represent?
A: The verse states that the tribe of Yissakhar had 54,400 men eligible for military service. According to Rashi, this count reflects the strength and size of each tribe during the census in the wilderness. Yissakhar's large number shows their significance among the tribes, especially since they were known for their Torah scholarship (as mentioned in Divrei Hayamim I 12:33).
Q: Why is the tribe of Yissakhar mentioned in the census?
A: The census in Bamidbar (Numbers) was taken to organize the Israelites for their journey and military duties. Yissakhar, like all tribes, was counted to determine their role in the camp and their contribution to the nation. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) highlights that Yissakhar was particularly devoted to Torah study, and their numbers reflect both physical and spiritual strength.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse teaches the importance of counting and valuing each individual's role in the community. Just as Yissakhar had a specific number and purpose, every Jew today has a unique contribution. The Rambam (Hilchot Kiddush HaChodesh) emphasizes that unity and organization are essential for a functioning society, much like the orderly census in the Torah.
Q: What can we learn from Yissakhar having 54,400 men?
A: The large number shows that Yissakhar was a thriving tribe. The Talmud (Berachot 17a) praises Yissakhar for dedicating themselves to Torah study, suggesting that their material success (reflected in their population) was a blessing due to their spiritual devotion. This teaches that Torah study brings both spiritual and physical blessings.