Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Numbers 13:19 in the Torah?
A: Numbers 13:19 is part of Moshe's instructions to the twelve spies before they scout the Land of Israel. Moshe asks them to assess the land's quality (good or bad) and the living conditions of its inhabitants (whether they dwell in open camps or fortified cities). This mission was meant to prepare Bnei Yisrael for entering the land, as explained by Rashi and other commentators.
Q: Why did Moshe ask the spies to check if the land was good or bad?
A: Moshe wanted the spies to verify the land's fertility and desirability, as promised by Hashem (a land flowing with milk and honey). However, Ramban explains that this question also tested the spies' faith—would they focus on the land's physical blessings or doubt Hashem's promise? Unfortunately, most spies later gave a negative report, showing lack of trust in Hashem.
Q: What is the significance of asking whether the cities were fortified or open?
A: The question about cities (fortified or open) was strategic. Fortified cities would imply strong, settled inhabitants, making conquest harder, while open camps suggested vulnerability. However, as the Sforno notes, the real test was whether Bnei Yisrael would rely on Hashem's strength rather than human calculations. The spies' fear of fortified cities later revealed their lack of faith.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish faith today?
A: This verse teaches the importance of bitachon (trust in Hashem) even when facing challenges. Just as the spies were meant to see the land's goodness and rely on Hashem's promise, we must also recognize Hashem's blessings and trust in His guidance, especially in difficult times, as emphasized in Jewish thought (e.g., Rambam's teachings on faith).
Q: What lesson can we learn from the spies' mission in this verse?
A: The spies' mission teaches that observing reality must be coupled with emunah (faith). While gathering information is prudent, as the Talmud (Sotah 34b) discusses, the spies failed by focusing only on obstacles rather than Hashem's power. We learn to approach challenges with a balance of hishtadlut (effort) and trust in Hashem's help.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Numbers 13:19) is part of Moshe's instructions to the twelve spies before their mission to scout the Land of Canaan. Moshe provides them with specific inquiries to investigate, focusing on the quality of the land and the nature of its inhabitants' settlements. The questions are designed to assess both the agricultural potential of the land and the military strength of its inhabitants.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that Moshe's questions were strategic. The phrase "whether it is good or bad" refers to the land's fertility—whether it produces high-quality fruits or not. The second part, "whether in tents or in strongholds", examines the living conditions of the inhabitants. Rashi explains that if the people dwell in open tents (unfortified), it suggests they are strong and unafraid of invaders. Conversely, if they live in fortified cities, it indicates they are weak and require protection.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed) emphasizes the practical wisdom behind Moshe's instructions. The spies were to evaluate both the land's material benefits ("good or bad") and the military challenges ("tents or strongholds"). This dual focus reflects the Torah's balance between physical and spiritual considerations when preparing for conquest and settlement.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Chizkuni (Rabbi Hezekiah ben Manoach) connects this verse to the broader halachic principle of yishuv Eretz Yisrael (settling the Land of Israel). The spies' mission was not just reconnaissance but a preparatory step for fulfilling the mitzvah of dwelling in and inheriting the land. Their failure to report truthfully about the land's goodness led to severe consequences, underscoring the importance of faith in Hashem's promise.