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Numbers 1:53 - Levites guard Divine Presence's sanctity

Numbers 1:53 - במדבר 1:53

Hebrew Text

וְהַלְוִיִּם יַחֲנוּ סָבִיב לְמִשְׁכַּן הָעֵדֻת וְלֹא־יִהְיֶה קֶצֶף עַל־עֲדַת בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל וְשָׁמְרוּ הַלְוִיִּם אֶת־מִשְׁמֶרֶת מִשְׁכַּן הָעֵדוּת׃

English Translation

But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Yisra᾽el: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of testimony.

Transliteration

Vehaleviim yachanu saviv lemishkan ha'edut velo-yihye ketzef al-adat bnei yisrael veshamru haleviim et-mishmeret mishkan ha'edut.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהַלְוִיִּ֞ם יַחֲנ֤וּ סָבִיב֙ לְמִשְׁכַּ֣ן הָעֵדֻ֔ת וְלֹֽא־יִהְיֶ֣ה קֶ֔צֶף עַל־עֲדַ֖ת בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְשָׁמְרוּ֙ הַלְוִיִּ֔ם אֶת־מִשְׁמֶ֖רֶת מִשְׁכַּ֥ן הָעֵדֽוּת׃
וְהַלְוִיִּ֞ם יַחֲנ֤וּ סָבִיב֙ לְמִשְׁכַּ֣ן הָעֵדֻ֔ת וְלֹֽא־יִהְיֶ֣ה קֶ֔צֶף עַל־עֲדַ֖ת בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְשָׁמְרוּ֙ הַלְוִיִּ֔ם אֶת־מִשְׁמֶ֖רֶת מִשְׁכַּ֥ן הָעֵדֽוּת׃

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Parasha Commentary

Positioning of the Levites

The verse (Bamidbar 1:53) describes the unique role of the Levites in encamping around the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that this arrangement served as a protective barrier between the Mishkan and the rest of Israel, preventing unauthorized individuals from approaching and incurring divine wrath. The Levites acted as guardians, ensuring the sanctity of the Mishkan was preserved.

Prevention of Divine Wrath

The phrase "וְלֹא־יִהְיֶה קֶצֶף" ("that there be no wrath") is interpreted by Ramban (Nachmanides) as referring to the potential consequences if the Mishkan were treated with disrespect. The Sforno adds that the Levites' vigilance prevented accidental transgressions that could provoke divine anger, similar to their role during the Golden Calf incident (Shemot 32:26-29), where they demonstrated their loyalty to Hashem.

Duties of the Levites

The Talmud (Eruvin 105a) elaborates on the phrase "וְשָׁמְרוּ הַלְוִיִּם אֶת־מִשְׁמֶרֶת" ("the Levites shall keep the charge"), explaining that their responsibilities included:

  • Guarding the Mishkan's entrances (based on Bamidbar 3:38)
  • Assisting the Kohanim in their service (Rambam, Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 3:2)
  • Transporting and assembling the Mishkan during travels (Midrash Tanchuma, Bamidbar 5)

Spiritual Significance

The Kli Yakar emphasizes the symbolic meaning of the Levites' surrounding position - just as they encircled the Mishkan physically, their role was to help Israel surround themselves spiritually with Torah and mitzvot. Their presence served as a constant reminder of the centrality of divine service in the camp.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Zevachim 17b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the roles and responsibilities of the Levites in guarding the Tabernacle and preventing divine wrath upon the Israelites.
📖 Arakhin 11b
Referenced in the context of discussing the sanctity and duties associated with the Tabernacle and the Levites' role in its maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Levites camp around the Mishkan (Tabernacle)?
A: The Levites camped around the Mishkan to serve as a protective barrier between the rest of the Israelites and the holy sanctuary. According to Rashi, this was to prevent unauthorized people from approaching and incurring divine wrath (Numbers 1:53). Their role was crucial in maintaining the sanctity and safety of the Mishkan.
Q: What was the 'charge of the Mishkan' that the Levites had to keep?
A: The 'charge of the Mishkan' refers to the Levites' responsibilities in guarding, transporting, and maintaining the Mishkan and its vessels. The Rambam explains that they were tasked with assembling, disassembling, and carrying the Mishkan during travels (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 3:1-2). They also ensured no unauthorized person came too close.
Q: What does 'no wrath upon the congregation' mean in this verse?
A: The phrase means that without the Levites guarding the Mishkan, the Israelites might accidentally trespass into holy areas, leading to divine punishment. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 1:12) teaches that the Levites acted as spiritual protectors, preventing accidental sins that could bring collective consequences.
Q: How does the role of the Levites apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Mishkan, the principle remains relevant: safeguarding holiness is essential. The Talmud (Yoma 26a) compares the Levites' role to Torah scholars who protect spiritual integrity. Today, we honor this idea by respecting sacred spaces (like synagogues) and supporting those who dedicate themselves to Torah study and communal service.
Q: Why were only the Levites chosen for this role?
A: The Levites were chosen because of their loyalty to Hashem during the sin of the Golden Calf (Exodus 32:26-29). Rashi (Numbers 1:49) notes that their zeal for sanctity made them uniquely suited for this sacred duty. Their tribe was set apart for service in place of the firstborns, who originally held this role before the sin.