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Numbers 18:30 - Levites' holy share first

Numbers 18:30 - במדבר 18:30

Hebrew Text

וְאָמַרְתָּ אֲלֵהֶם בַּהֲרִימְכֶם אֶת־חֶלְבּוֹ מִמֶּנּוּ וְנֶחְשַׁב לַלְוִיִּם כִּתְבוּאַת גֹּרֶן וְכִתְבוּאַת יָקֶב׃

English Translation

Therefore thou shalt say to them, When you have set aside the best of it, then it shall be counted to the Levites as the increase of the threshingfloor, and as the increase of the winepress.

Transliteration

Ve'amarta alehem baharimkhem et-chelbo mimeno venechshav laleviyim kitvu'at goren vechitvu'at yakev.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ אֲלֵהֶ֑ם בַּהֲרִֽימְכֶ֤ם אֶת־חֶלְבּוֹ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ וְנֶחְשַׁב֙ לַלְוִיִּ֔ם כִּתְבוּאַ֥ת גֹּ֖רֶן וְכִתְבוּאַ֥ת יָֽקֶב׃
וְאָמַרְתָּ֖ אֲלֵהֶ֑ם בַּהֲרִֽימְכֶ֤ם אֶת־חֶלְבּוֹ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ וְנֶחְשַׁב֙ לַלְוִיִּ֔ם כִּתְבוּאַ֥ת גֹּ֖רֶן וְכִתְבוּאַ֥ת יָֽקֶב׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context and Overview

The verse (Bamidbar 18:30) discusses the portion given to the Levites from the tithes (ma'aser) they receive from Bnei Yisrael. After the Levites separate terumat ma'aser (a tenth of the tithe) for the Kohanim, the remainder is permitted for their consumption. Here, Hashem instructs Moshe to inform the Levites that once they separate the choicest portion (cheilev), the remainder is considered like produce from the threshing floor and winepress—permitted for their use.

Explanation of Key Terms

  • "בַּהֲרִימְכֶם אֶת־חֶלְבּוֹ" (When you have set aside the best of it) - Rashi explains that this refers to terumat ma'aser, the portion the Levites must separate and give to the Kohanim. The term cheilev (literally "fat") denotes the choicest part, emphasizing its sanctity.
  • "וְנֶחְשַׁב לַלְוִיִּם" (Then it shall be counted to the Levites) - The remaining portion after separating terumat ma'aser is permitted for the Levites to eat, as clarified by the Rambam in Hilchot Ma'aser.
  • "כִּתְבוּאַת גֹּרֶן וְכִתְבוּאַת יָקֶב" (As the increase of the threshing floor and winepress) - The Sifrei interprets this to mean that the remaining tithe is as permissible for the Levites as regular produce is for all Jews after terumot and ma'asrot have been separated.

Halachic Implications

The verse establishes the proper procedure for the Levites' consumption of tithes. The Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Terumot 3:1) rules that a Levite may not eat from his tithe until he has separated terumat ma'aser for the Kohen. Once separated, the remaining portion is considered "mundane" (chol) for the Levite, akin to produce that has had its required tithes removed.

Spiritual Significance

The Midrash Tanchuma (Korach 10) connects this mitzvah to the broader theme of recognizing Hashem's ownership. By giving the choicest portion to the Kohanim, the Levites demonstrate humility and gratitude, acknowledging that their sustenance ultimately comes from Hashem. The comparison to the threshing floor and winepress teaches that just as farmers must separate tithes from their harvest, so too must the Levites sanctify a portion of what they receive.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Chullin 132a
The verse is discussed in the context of the laws regarding the portions given to the Levites, specifically how the terumah (heave offering) is to be treated similarly to the produce of the threshing floor and winepress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 18:30 mean?
A: Numbers 18:30 instructs the Israelites to give the best portion (the 'terumah') of their produce to the Levites. This portion is considered holy and is compared to the yield of the threshing floor and winepress. Rashi explains that just as the threshing floor and winepress produce are tithed, so too must the Israelites separate the best part of their crops for the Levites, who serve in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Temple.
Q: Why is giving the best portion to the Levites important?
A: Giving the best portion to the Levites is a mitzvah (commandment) that acknowledges their sacred role in serving Hashem and maintaining the spiritual well-being of the Jewish people. The Rambam (Hilchot Terumot) teaches that this act reinforces gratitude and ensures that those dedicated to Torah and divine service are supported, allowing them to focus on their holy work without material concerns.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: Although the Temple is not standing today, the principle of supporting Torah scholars and those dedicated to spiritual service remains relevant. The Talmud (Chullin 131a) discusses how communities should prioritize supporting teachers and scholars, continuing the legacy of sustaining the Levites. Many Jewish communities today uphold this value by supporting yeshivot and Torah institutions.
Q: What can we learn from Numbers 18:30 about giving?
A: This verse teaches the importance of giving generously and with sincerity, specifically the 'best' of what we have—not just the leftovers. The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar) emphasizes that giving the choicest portion reflects true devotion to Hashem and respect for those who serve in a spiritual capacity. It also reminds us that material blessings should be shared with those who enrich our spiritual lives.
Q: What is the 'terumah' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'terumah' refers to the portion of agricultural produce that the Israelites were commanded to separate and give to the Kohanim (priests) and Levites. Rashi explains that it is called 'terumah' (literally 'uplifting') because it elevates the rest of the produce, making it permissible for consumption. The amount given was typically between 1/40th and 1/60th of the harvest, depending on the generosity of the giver (Mishnah Terumot 4:3).