share torah logo

Numbers 10:36 - Divine presence returns with Israel

Numbers 10:36 - במדבר 10:36

Hebrew Text

וּבְנֻחֹה יֹאמַר שׁוּבָה יְהוָה רִבְבוֹת אַלְפֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

And when it rested, he said, Return, Lord, to the ten thousand thousands of Yisra᾽el.

Transliteration

Uvenucho yomar shuva Adonai rivivot alfei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּבְנֻחֹ֖ה יֹאמַ֑ר שׁוּבָ֣ה יְהֹוָ֔ה רִֽבְב֖וֹת אַלְפֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃ <span class="mam-spi-invnun">׆</span> <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
וּבְנֻחֹ֖ה יֹאמַ֑ר שׁוּבָ֣ה יְהֹוָ֔ה רִֽבְב֖וֹת אַלְפֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃ ׆ {פ}

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

The verse (Bamidbar 10:36) appears in the context of the Israelites' travels in the wilderness, where the Ark of the Covenant would lead them. When the Ark rested, Moshe would say this prayer, asking Hashem to return to the "ten thousand thousands of Yisrael."

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that "שׁוּבָה יְהוָה" ("Return, Lord") refers to the Divine Presence (Shechinah) returning to dwell among Israel after the Ark came to rest. The phrase "רִבְבוֹת אַלְפֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל" ("ten thousand thousands of Israel") signifies the vast multitudes of the Jewish people, emphasizing that Hashem's presence is with them in their great numbers.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:9) elaborates that Moshe's words were a plea for Hashem's mercy, ensuring that His presence would not depart from Israel even when they were encamped. The term "רִבְבוֹת" (myriads) alludes to the 600,000 adult males who left Egypt, while "אַלְפֵי" (thousands) represents the tribes, showing that Hashem's providence extends to both the nation as a whole and its individual components.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:4) discusses the importance of prayer during transitions, such as when the Ark moved or rested. Moshe's declaration serves as a model for invoking Hashem's presence in times of change, reinforcing the idea that divine protection is constant, whether in motion or at rest.

Kabbalistic Insight

The Zohar (Bamidbar 59a) interprets "שׁוּבָה יְהוָה" as a request for the Shechinah to return to its full revelation among Israel. The numerical language ("רִבְבוֹת אַלְפֵי") hints at the spiritual abundance (ריבוי) bestowed upon the Jewish people when they are united in purpose and devotion.

Practical Lesson

  • This verse teaches that Hashem's presence is not static but responds to the Jewish people's spiritual state and needs.
  • It emphasizes the importance of recognizing divine providence both in times of movement (challenges) and rest (tranquility).
  • The phrasing underscores the collective strength of Israel—when united, they merit Hashem's closeness in great measure.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Shabbat 116a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the resting of the Ark and the Divine Presence among Israel.
📖 Sotah 35a
The verse is cited in the context of the Ark's journey and the Divine Presence accompanying Israel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 10:36 mean when it says 'Return, Lord, to the ten thousands of Israel'?
A: This verse refers to the Cloud of Glory (ענן הכבוד) that rested over the Mishkan (Tabernacle). When the cloud rested, Moshe would pray for Hashem's presence to dwell among the thousands of Israel. Rashi explains that this shows Moshe's deep care for the Jewish people, asking that the Divine Presence should never depart from them.
Q: Why is this verse important in the Torah?
A: This verse teaches us about the intimate relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people during their travels in the wilderness. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 2:9) explains that this demonstrates how the Shechinah (Divine Presence) accompanied Israel in their journeys, and Moshe's prayer reflects our ideal that God's presence should always be with His people.
Q: How does Numbers 10:36 apply to us today?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:1-2) teaches that this verse establishes the concept of prayer during times when the Divine Presence is felt. Today, we continue this tradition by praying for Hashem's presence to dwell among us, especially when we gather in synagogues - which are considered a 'Mikdash Me'at' (miniature sanctuary).