Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 18:29 mean?
A: Numbers 18:29 instructs the Jewish people to separate a portion (terumah) from their produce and gifts as an offering to Hashem. This verse emphasizes giving the 'best' (cheilev) and holiest portion to the Kohanim (priests) for the service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Temple. Rashi explains that this teaches us to give generously and prioritize sanctity in our offerings.
Q: Why is separating terumah important in Judaism?
A: Separating terumah is a biblical commandment that sanctifies our material possessions and connects us to Hashem. The Rambam (Hilchot Terumot) explains that terumah supports the Kohanim, who serve in the Temple, ensuring the spiritual continuity of the Jewish people. Even today, when the Temple is not standing, we learn the value of dedicating our resources to holiness and supporting Torah scholars.
Q: What can we learn from 'giving the best' to Hashem?
A: The phrase 'the best thereof' (מִכָּל־חֶלְבּוֹ) teaches that we should offer our finest—whether in mitzvot, charity, or service to Hashem. The Midrash (Sifrei) notes that just as we give the choicest parts in offerings, we should also dedicate our highest efforts in Torah study and acts of kindness. This principle applies today in how we prioritize our time, money, and energy for mitzvot.
Q: How does this verse apply today without the Temple?
A: Although we cannot bring terumah to the Kohanim today, the Talmud (Chullin 134a) discusses how the laws of terumah still teach us about hafrashas challah (separating dough) and supporting Torah institutions. The Rambam (Melachim 11:1) also states that these laws will be reinstated in the Messianic era. Meanwhile, we apply the lesson by giving ma'aser (tithes) to charity and Torah causes.
Q: Who received the terumah in the Torah?
A: Terumah was given exclusively to the Kohanim (priests), as derived from this verse and explained in the Talmud (Yevamot 86b). The Kohanim, who served in the Mishkan and Temple, relied on these offerings for sustenance since they had no land inheritance (Numbers 18:20). Rashi emphasizes that this system ensured their devotion to divine service without worldly distractions.
Source and Context
The verse (Bamidbar 18:29) is part of the Torah's instructions regarding the gifts given to the Kohanim (priests) and Levi'im (Levites). It specifies the requirement to separate terumah (a portion designated for sacred purposes) from the produce and other gifts given to the Levi'im.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that this verse teaches that the Levi'im must separate terumat ma'aser (a tenth of their tithe) from the produce they receive from Bnei Yisrael. The phrase "מִכֹּל מַתְּנֹתֵיכֶם" ("out of all that is given to you") refers to the tithes given to the Levi'im, from which they must further separate a portion for the Kohanim. Rashi emphasizes that this separation must be from the best portion ("מִכָּל־חֶלְבּוֹ"), not from inferior quality.
Rambam's Interpretation
In Hilchot Terumot (Laws of Heave Offerings), the Rambam elaborates that the obligation to separate terumat ma'aser applies even after the Levi receives his portion. The phrase "אֶת־מִקְדְּשׁוֹ מִמֶּנּוּ" ("the hallowed part of it") indicates that this portion is sacred and must be treated with the same sanctity as other offerings in the Beit HaMikdash.
Midrashic Insight
The Midrash Tanchuma (Korach 10) connects this mitzvah to the broader theme of gratitude and recognizing Hashem's ownership of all bounty. By separating the best portion, the Levi'im demonstrate that their sustenance ultimately comes from Hashem, reinforcing the principle that material blessings are entrusted to us for spiritual purposes.
Practical Halachic Implications