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Numbers 2:21 - Counting Israel's sacred tribes

Numbers 2:21 - במדבר 2:21

Hebrew Text

וּצְבָאוֹ וּפְקֻדֵיהֶם שְׁנַיִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁים אֶלֶף וּמָאתָיִם׃

English Translation

And his host, and those that were numbered of them, were thirty two thousand, two hundred.

Transliteration

Utsva'o uf'kudeihem shnayim ushloshim elef umatayim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּצְבָא֖וֹ וּפְקֻדֵיהֶ֑ם שְׁנַ֧יִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים אֶ֖לֶף וּמָאתָֽיִם׃
וּצְבָא֖וֹ וּפְקֻדֵיהֶ֑ם שְׁנַ֧יִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֛ים אֶ֖לֶף וּמָאתָֽיִם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

This verse appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 1:29, as part of the census of the tribes of Israel in the wilderness. Specifically, it records the count of the tribe of Yissachar—32,200 men of military age (20 years and older). The census was commanded by Hashem to Moshe and Elazar the Kohen after the Exodus from Egypt.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 1:29) notes that the phrase "וּצְבָאוֹ וּפְקֻדֵיהֶם" ("his host, and those that were numbered of them") emphasizes that the count was conducted meticulously under Moshe and Elazar's leadership. The term "צְבָאוֹ" ("his host") refers to the military organization of the tribe, while "פְקֻדֵיהֶם" ("those that were numbered") highlights the individual accountability of each member.

Symbolism of the Number

The number 32,200 is significant in Jewish thought:

  • The Baal HaTurim (Bamidbar 1:29) connects this number to the tribe of Yissachar's role as scholars of Torah. The numerical value (gematria) of "לב" ("heart") is 32, alluding to their wisdom (as Torah is acquired through the heart).
  • The Midrash Tanchuma (Bamidbar 12) teaches that Yissachar's dedication to Torah study merited their large numbers, as Torah brings blessing and multiplication.

Military vs. Spiritual Strength

The Ramban (Nachmanides, Bamidbar 1:45) explains that while the count was for military purposes, the true strength of Israel lies in their spiritual devotion. Yissachar, though counted among the warriors, was primarily known for Torah scholarship, showing that Israel's protection comes from merit in Torah and mitzvos.

Comparison with Other Tribes

The Sforno (Bamidbar 1:29) points out that Yissachar's numbers were neither the largest (like Yehuda) nor the smallest (like Menashe), reflecting their balanced role—supporting both Torah study and national responsibilities.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 2:21 mean when it mentions 'his host'?
A: In Numbers 2:21, 'his host' refers to the tribal army of the tribe of Reuven, which was counted in the wilderness. According to Rashi, this counting was done by Moshe and Aharon as commanded by Hashem to organize the Jewish people for their travels and encampments.
Q: Why does the Torah give such specific numbers for each tribe's count?
A: The precise counting of each tribe shows the importance of every individual in Klal Yisrael. The Midrash teaches that just as a person counts their precious possessions carefully, Hashem counts the Jewish people because they are dear to Him. The numbers also reflect the military strength of each tribe when organized around the Mishkan.
Q: How does the counting of tribes in Numbers apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have tribal counts, the principle remains that every Jew counts. The Rambam teaches that community matters require participation and accountability. Just as each tribe had its place around the Mishkan, today each Jew has a unique role in serving Hashem and contributing to the Jewish people.