Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Numbers 32:26?
A: Numbers 32:26 is part of the dialogue between Moshe (Moses) and the tribes of Reuven and Gad, who requested to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River (in the land of Gil῾ad) because it was good for their livestock. Moshe initially suspected they were avoiding participation in conquering the Land of Israel, but they assured him they would fight alongside the other tribes before settling. This verse is their commitment to leave their families and livestock in Gil῾ad while they assist in the conquest.
Q: Why did the tribes of Reuven and Gad want to stay in Gil῾ad?
A: According to Rashi (Numbers 32:1), the tribes of Reuven and Gad had abundant livestock, and the land of Gil῾ad was fertile and well-suited for grazing. They saw it as an ideal place for their families and herds. However, Moshe emphasized that their primary duty was to help the other tribes conquer the Land of Israel before settling down (Ramban on Numbers 32:6).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Numbers 32:26?
A: This verse teaches the importance of communal responsibility. Even though Reuven and Gad wanted to settle in Gil῾ad, they committed to helping their brethren first (as Moshe demanded). The Talmud (Sotah 44a) derives from this that one must not prioritize personal comfort over the needs of the community. Their promise to fight alongside the other tribes shows unity and dedication to a shared mission.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: The principle of putting the community's needs before personal interests remains relevant. Just as Reuven and Gad had to assist in conquering the Land before settling, today, Jews are encouraged to support communal needs—whether in Torah study, charity, or defending the Jewish people—before focusing solely on individual success (based on Rambam, Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 8:10).
Q: Why did Moshe initially oppose their request?
A: Moshe feared that if Reuven and Gad settled outside the Land of Israel, it might discourage the other tribes from entering and fulfilling Hashem's command to conquer the land (Rashi on Numbers 32:6). He compared it to the sin of the spies (Meraglim), whose negative report caused the nation to lose faith. Only after they pledged to join the battle did Moshe agree (Talmud, Sotah 44a).
Context in the Torah
This verse (Numbers 32:26) appears in the narrative where the tribes of Reuven and Gad request to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the fertile land of Gil῾ad, rather than entering Eretz Yisrael proper. Moshe initially rebukes them, fearing they will discourage the other tribes from conquering the land, but they clarify their intention to first help their brethren in battle before returning to their families and livestock in Gil῾ad.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments on this verse that the tribes of Reuven and Gad were emphasizing their commitment to the collective mission. By stating "Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our cattle shall be there in the cities of Gil῾ad," they were assuring Moshe that their families and possessions would remain behind as a guarantee of their return after fighting alongside the other tribes. Rashi notes that this demonstrated their sincerity and willingness to participate fully in the conquest of Eretz Yisrael.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides), in his Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Melachim 7:9), derives from this episode the principle of mutual responsibility (arevut) among the Jewish people. The tribes of Reuven and Gad recognized their obligation to assist their brethren, even at personal risk, setting a precedent for Jewish unity and collective responsibility in fulfilling mitzvot tied to the Land of Israel.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Kli Yakar (Rabbi Shlomo Ephraim Luntschitz) notes that this episode establishes the halachic concept of conditional agreements. The tribes made their settlement contingent upon fulfilling their military duties, showing how Jewish law recognizes conditional arrangements when clearly stated.