share torah logo

Numbers 1:4 - Tribal leaders' divine appointment?

Numbers 1:4 - במדבר 1:4

Hebrew Text

וְאִתְּכֶם יִהְיוּ אִישׁ אִישׁ לַמַּטֶּה אִישׁ רֹאשׁ לְבֵית־אֲבֹתָיו הוּא׃

English Translation

And with you there shall be a man of every tribe; every one head of the house of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve'itkhem yihyu ish ish lamateh ish rosh leveit-avotav hu.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאִתְּכֶ֣ם יִהְי֔וּ אִ֥ישׁ אִ֖ישׁ לַמַּטֶּ֑ה אִ֛ישׁ רֹ֥אשׁ לְבֵית־אֲבֹתָ֖יו הֽוּא׃
וְאִתְּכֶ֣ם יִהְי֔וּ אִ֥ישׁ אִ֖ישׁ לַמַּטֶּ֑ה אִ֛ישׁ רֹ֥אשׁ לְבֵית־אֲבֹתָ֖יו הֽוּא׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Numbers 1:4) appears in the context of the census of Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness. Hashem commands Moshe and Aharon to take a count of the Israelite men of fighting age, with the assistance of a leader from each tribe.

Explanation of the Text

The phrase "אִישׁ אִישׁ לַמַּטֶּה" (a man of every tribe) emphasizes that each tribe was to be represented by a distinguished individual. Rashi explains that these were not ordinary men but נשיאים (princes or leaders) of their respective tribes, as listed later in the chapter (Numbers 1:5-15).

The term "רֹאשׁ לְבֵית־אֲבֹתָיו" (head of the house of his fathers) indicates that these leaders were chosen based on their lineage and stature within their tribal families. Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that these individuals were already recognized as leaders before this appointment, demonstrating their inherent qualities of leadership and respect among their people.

Role of the Tribal Leaders

  • Representation: Each leader served as the representative of his tribe in the census, ensuring an accurate and dignified count (Sforno).
  • Authority: Their presence lent legitimacy to the process, as they were trusted figures who could verify the numbers (Ibn Ezra).
  • Unity: By involving leaders from every tribe, the census reinforced the unity of Bnei Yisrael while respecting tribal distinctions (Midrash Bamidbar Rabbah).

Symbolic Significance

The Ohr HaChaim highlights that the phrase "וְאִתְּכֶם יִהְיוּ" (and with you there shall be) suggests that these leaders were to assist Moshe and Aharon as partners in the sacred task of counting the nation. This reflects the principle that leadership in Klal Yisrael is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between the central authority (Moshe) and the tribal representatives.

Halachic Insight

The Rambam (Hilchot Kiddush HaChodesh 5:1) derives from this verse that important communal matters should be conducted with the participation of recognized leaders, ensuring transparency and collective responsibility. This principle is applied in Jewish communal governance to this day.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 1:4 mean?
A: Numbers 1:4 describes the instruction given to Moshe (Moses) and Aharon (Aaron) to appoint a leader from each of the twelve tribes of Israel to assist in taking a census. Each leader was to represent his tribe and the households of his fathers. Rashi explains that these leaders were respected individuals chosen for their integrity and ability to represent their tribes accurately.
Q: Why was it important to have a leader from each tribe in the census?
A: Having a leader from each tribe ensured fairness and accuracy in the census. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that leadership and representation are crucial in Jewish tradition to maintain order and justice. Each tribe had unique qualities, and their leaders helped ensure that every family was accounted for properly, as the census was used for military and organizational purposes in the wilderness.
Q: What can we learn from the selection of tribal leaders in Numbers 1:4?
A: We learn the importance of proper leadership and representation in communal matters. The Midrash teaches that these leaders were chosen for their wisdom and righteousness, showing that leadership in Judaism requires both moral and practical qualifications. This verse reminds us that every group needs responsible individuals to guide and represent them with fairness and dedication.
Q: How does the concept of tribal leadership in Numbers 1:4 apply today?
A: Today, this principle applies in Jewish communities through the selection of rabbis, community leaders, and representatives who uphold Torah values. Just as each tribe had a leader, modern Jewish communities rely on trustworthy individuals to guide them in religious and communal affairs, ensuring unity and adherence to halacha (Jewish law).