Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 21:22 mean?
A: Numbers 21:22 records the request of the Israelites to the king of Edom, asking for permission to pass through his land peacefully. They promise not to take anything from the fields, vineyards, or wells, and to stay strictly on the main road ('the king’s highway') until they cross the border. This shows their respect for Edom’s territory and their desire to avoid conflict.
Q: Why did the Israelites ask to pass through Edom?
A: The Israelites needed to travel through Edom to reach the Land of Canaan, as it was part of their journey through the wilderness. According to Rashi, they made this request because they wanted to take the most direct route while maintaining peaceful relations with Edom, who were descendants of Esav (Jacob’s brother).
Q: What can we learn from Numbers 21:22 about diplomacy?
A: This verse teaches the importance of respectful diplomacy and honesty in dealings with others. The Israelites approached Edom with clear terms, promising not to take resources or cause harm. This reflects Jewish values of derech eretz (proper conduct) and peaceful negotiation, as emphasized in the Talmud and Midrash.
Q: Why did the Israelites mention not drinking from wells or entering fields?
A: The Israelites wanted to assure Edom that they would not take any resources (water, crops, etc.) without permission. This was a sign of good faith, demonstrating that they were not coming to plunder or settle, but simply to pass through. The Talmud (Bava Kama) discusses the importance of respecting others’ property, which aligns with this principle.
Q: How does this verse apply to ethical behavior today?
A: Numbers 21:22 teaches us to be considerate of others’ property and rights, even when we have our own needs. Whether in business, travel, or daily life, we should strive to act with integrity and avoid causing unnecessary harm or inconvenience. This aligns with the Torah’s broader ethical teachings, as discussed by Rambam in Hilchot De’ot (Laws of Personal Development).
Context of the Verse
This verse (Numbers 20:17) is part of the message that the Israelites, led by Moshe (Moses), sent to the king of Edom, requesting permission to pass through his land on their journey to Eretz Yisrael. The request emphasizes that the Israelites would not cause any harm or take resources from Edom's territory.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "לֹא נִטֶּה בְּשָׂדֶה וּבְכֶרֶם" ("we will not turn aside into the fields or into the vineyards") means the Israelites would not stray from the main road to take anything from the land, even unintentionally. They would not even drink from Edom's wells ("לֹא נִשְׁתֶּה מֵי בְאֵר"), ensuring no depletion of resources.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchot Melachim (Laws of Kings) discusses the ethical conduct of war and diplomacy. This verse exemplifies the principle of דַּרְכֵי שָׁלוֹם (ways of peace), where Bnei Yisrael sought peaceful passage rather than conflict, even when they had the Divine promise of the land.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Chofetz Chaim derives from this verse the importance of avoiding even the appearance of wrongdoing (מַרְאִית הָעַיִן). By specifying their route and intentions, Bnei Yisrael ensured there would be no suspicion of theft or damage.
Symbolic Meaning
The Kli Yakar suggests that the "king’s highway" (דֶּרֶךְ הַמֶּלֶךְ) also alludes to the path of Torah and mitzvot—a straight path without deviation, just as the Israelites committed to staying on the designated road.