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Numbers 15:16 - Torah unites all dwellers

Numbers 15:16 - במדבר 15:16

Hebrew Text

תּוֹרָה אַחַת וּמִשְׁפָּט אֶחָד יִהְיֶה לָכֶם וְלַגֵּר הַגָּר אִתְּכֶם׃

English Translation

One Tora and one code shall there be for you, and for the stranger that sojourns with you.

Transliteration

Torah achat umishpat echad yihyeh lachem velager hagar itchem.

Hebrew Leining Text

תּוֹרָ֥ה אַחַ֛ת וּמִשְׁפָּ֥ט אֶחָ֖ד יִהְיֶ֣ה לָכֶ֑ם וְלַגֵּ֖ר הַגָּ֥ר אִתְּכֶֽם׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
תּוֹרָ֥ה אַחַ֛ת וּמִשְׁפָּ֥ט אֶחָ֖ד יִהְיֶ֣ה לָכֶ֑ם וְלַגֵּ֖ר הַגָּ֥ר אִתְּכֶֽם׃ {פ}

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Parasha Commentary

Source and Context

The verse (Bamidbar 15:16) appears in the context of the mitzvah of challah, where the Torah emphasizes that the same laws apply to both native-born Israelites and converts (גרים). This principle is foundational in Jewish law, ensuring equality in halachic obligations.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 15:16) explains that the phrase "תורה אחת" ("one Torah") means that the same Torah applies to all Jews, whether born into the faith or having converted. He emphasizes that there is no distinction in halachic requirements between a native-born Jew and a convert.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Biah 13:17) elaborates that a convert is considered a full-fledged Jew in every respect, with the same obligations and privileges. He derives this from our verse, stating that the Torah equates the convert with the native-born in all matters of mitzvot.

Talmudic Interpretation

The Talmud (Bava Metzia 59b) uses this verse to establish that converts are included in all communal obligations. The Sages derive from "ולגר הגר אתכם" that converts must participate in public fasts and other communal responsibilities just like other Jews.

Midrashic Insight

The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 15:16) teaches that this verse comes to counter any potential claim that converts might have a lesser status in Jewish law. It emphasizes that converts are beloved before Hashem and are fully integrated into the Jewish people.

Halachic Implications

  • The same Torah laws apply equally to converts and native-born Jews
  • Converts must observe all 613 mitzvot (with exceptions only where the Torah explicitly specifies)
  • No distinction may be made between converts and other Jews in matters of halacha
  • This principle extends to both positive commandments and prohibitions

Philosophical Dimension

The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 364) explains that this equality before the law serves to unite the Jewish people and prevent divisions. By having one Torah for all, we maintain the integrity and unity of the nation.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Bava Metzia 59b
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the equal application of laws to both Israelites and strangers (gerim).
📖 Keritot 9a
The verse is cited to emphasize the principle of equal justice for all, including the stranger.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'One Torah and one code shall there be for you and for the stranger' mean?
A: This verse teaches that both Jews and converts (or righteous non-Jews living among the Jewish people) are bound by the same Torah laws. Rashi explains that this emphasizes equality in halacha (Jewish law) for all who accept the Torah's commandments.
Q: Why does the Torah mention the stranger (ger) specifically in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Bava Metzia 59b) teaches that the Torah frequently reminds us to treat converts with kindness and equality. Here, it emphasizes that the ger must follow the same mitzvot as born Jews, showing that conversion is a complete acceptance of Torah law.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish communities today?
A: This verse establishes that all members of the Jewish community - whether born Jewish or converted - share the same obligations. The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 10:9) rules that this includes righteous non-Jews (ger toshav) who accept the Noahide laws while living among Jews.
Q: What lesson can we learn from 'One Torah and one code'?
A: The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar) explains this teaches unity - that there shouldn't be different standards or interpretations for different groups. All who accept Torah are equal before halacha, creating harmony in the Jewish community.
Q: Does this mean converts have to keep all the same commandments as born Jews?
A: Yes, the Talmud (Keritot 9a) states clearly that after conversion, a ger is considered like a newborn Jew with identical obligations. This verse establishes that principle - there is one unified Torah law for all Jews regardless of origin.