Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 33:10 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 33:10 is part of Moshe's blessing to the tribe of Levi before his passing. It describes the sacred duties of the Levites: teaching Torah and performing the Temple service (offering incense and sacrifices). Rashi explains that 'teaching judgments' refers to halachic rulings, while 'teaching Torah' refers to broader Torah instruction. The verse highlights the Levites' dual role as both teachers and servants in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Beit HaMikdash (Temple).
Q: Why is the tribe of Levi associated with teaching Torah?
A: The tribe of Levi was chosen for Torah teaching because they demonstrated dedication to Hashem during the sin of the Golden Calf (Shemos 32:26-29). Rambam (Hilchos Shemittah 13:12) notes that Levi'im were set apart to serve Hashem and teach His laws to others. Unlike other tribes who received land, their 'inheritance' was spiritual service. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) emphasizes that Torah scholars today continue this Levitical legacy of teaching.
Q: What is the significance of the incense mentioned in this verse?
A: The ketoret (incense) was a special offering in the Mishkan and Beit HaMikdash that created a pleasant fragrance. The Talmud (Kerisos 6b) teaches that the incense atoned for lashon hara (evil speech). The verse connects Torah teaching (by the Levites) with the incense service - both elevate the Jewish people spiritually. The Ramban explains that incense represents the 'hidden' mitzvos whose reasons aren't fully revealed, just as Torah has both revealed and hidden dimensions.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish life today?
A: Although we currently lack the Beit HaMikdash, the verse's message remains vital: 1) Torah study and teaching remain central mitzvos (Rambam, Hilchos Talmud Torah). 2) The incense teaches the power of prayer (as our substitute for sacrifices - Hoshea 14:3). 3) The Levites' devotion models how all Jews should serve Hashem in their unique ways. The Sforno notes that just as the Levites facilitated national connection to Hashem, today's Torah teachers and community leaders fill this role.
Q: Why does the verse mention both Yaakov and Yisrael?
A: The names Yaakov and Yisrael represent different spiritual levels. Rashi explains that 'Yaakov' refers to basic halachic instruction for beginners, while 'Yisrael' refers to deeper Torah wisdom for advanced learners. The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 77:1) teaches that 'Yaakov' denotes the Jewish people in exile, while 'Yisrael' refers to our elevated state. Thus, the Levites must teach all Jews according to their level - both practical laws and profound Torah insights.
Context and Source
The verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 33:10 as part of Moshe Rabbeinu's blessing to the tribe of Levi. The broader context is Moshe's final blessings to the twelve tribes before his passing. This verse highlights the sacred duties of the Levites in teaching Torah and performing the Temple service.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse is divided into two primary roles of the Levites:
Midrashic Insights
The Sifrei (a halachic Midrash on Devarim) emphasizes that the Levites were chosen for these roles due to their unwavering commitment during the sin of the Golden Calf, where they stood with Moshe. The incense (ketoret) is also interpreted symbolically in the Talmud (Yoma 44a) as representing atonement and divine favor.
Halachic Significance
The verse establishes the dual role of the Levites as both teachers and Temple servants. The Rambam (Hilchot Shemitah v’Yovel 13:12) derives from this that Torah scholars, like the Levites, should prioritize Torah study and teaching without being overly burdened by worldly occupations.
Spiritual Lessons