Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Eldad and Medad were prophesying in the camp?
A: According to Rashi and the Talmud (Sanhedrin 17a), Eldad and Medad were among the 70 elders chosen to assist Moshe, but they remained in the camp while others went to the Tabernacle. They received a unique prophecy about Moshe's future death and Yehoshua's leadership, showing that prophecy can come to those who are humble and worthy, even outside the formal gathering.
Q: Why did the young man run to tell Moshe about Eldad and Medad?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 15:19) explains that the young man thought their prophecy was improper since they were not with the other elders at the Tabernacle. However, Moshe responded that he wished all of Hashem's people could be prophets (Numbers 11:29), teaching that true leadership rejoices in others' spiritual growth.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Eldad and Medad's prophecy?
A: The Talmud (Sotah 13b) teaches that Eldad and Medad were modest and did not seek honor, which is why they merited prophecy. This teaches us the value of humility—that spiritual greatness often comes to those who do not actively pursue recognition.
Q: How does this verse relate to leadership in Judaism?
A: Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:7) discusses prophecy as a divine gift, not limited by formal titles. Moshe's response shows that true Jewish leadership, like his, encourages others' connection to Hashem rather than monopolizing spirituality. This principle applies today in valuing Torah scholars and teachers who uplift others.
Q: Were Eldad and Medad part of the 70 elders?
A: Yes, Rashi (on Numbers 11:26) explains they were selected but remained in the camp instead of going to the Tabernacle. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 17a) says they humbly excluded themselves, thinking they were unworthy, yet Hashem rewarded their humility with prophecy—a lesson in how sincerity is valued above position.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bamidbar 11:27) describes an incident where Eldad and Medad, two individuals from among the elders appointed by Moshe, began prophesying in the camp. This occurs after Hashem commands Moshe to gather seventy elders to assist in bearing the burden of leadership.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bamidbar 11:26) explains that Eldad and Medad were originally among the seventy elders chosen by Moshe, but they humbly withdrew from the selection. Despite this, the Divine Presence rested upon them, and they prophesied in the camp. Rashi further notes that their prophecy concerned the future, specifically the quails that would later be sent as food and the eventual passing of Moshe and the leadership of Yehoshua.
The Talmud's Perspective
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 17a) discusses why Eldad and Medad were prophesying separately from the other elders. It suggests that they were either among the elders but remained in the camp or that they were substitutes who were not officially selected. Their prophecy is seen as a sign of their exceptional spiritual stature.
Rambam's View on Prophecy
Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:7) emphasizes that prophecy is a divine gift that cannot be controlled by human will. The fact that Eldad and Medad prophesied without being formally included in the group of seventy elders demonstrates that the spirit of prophecy rests upon whom Hashem chooses, regardless of human selection.
Midrashic Insights
Lessons from the Incident
This episode teaches several key lessons: