Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Numbers 26:1?
A: Numbers 26:1 occurs after a plague that struck the Israelites as punishment for their sins (specifically related to the incident with Baal Peor in Numbers 25). Hashem then commands Moshe and Elazar, Aharon's son, to take a new census of the Israelite men eligible for military service. This marks a new beginning for the generation that would enter Eretz Yisrael.
Q: Why did Hashem speak to Moshe and Elazar specifically after the plague?
A: Rashi explains that Elazar was chosen because his father Aharon had passed away (as mentioned earlier in Numbers 20), and the leadership of the Kohanim now passed to him. Moshe, as the leader of Bnei Yisrael, was always addressed by Hashem. This verse highlights the transition of priestly leadership to the next generation.
Q: What is the significance of taking a census after the plague?
A: The census served multiple purposes: 1) It counted the new generation that would enter Eretz Yisrael (since the previous generation died in the wilderness). 2) It demonstrated Hashem's care for each individual, as counting shows personal importance (Ramban). 3) It prepared Bnei Yisrael for the upcoming battles in conquering the land.
Q: Why does the Torah mention the plague before this census?
A: The Midrash teaches that the plague was a punishment for sin, but the census afterward symbolized renewal and hope. It showed that despite setbacks, Bnei Yisrael could move forward under Hashem's guidance. The sequence teaches that teshuvah (repentance) and divine mercy follow judgment.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish leadership today?
A: This verse teaches that Jewish leadership must continue through generations, even after difficult times. Just as Elazar succeeded Aharon, Torah leadership is passed down responsibly. Additionally, counting the people reminds us that every Jew matters in building Klal Yisrael (the community of Israel), a lesson relevant in all eras.
Context of the Verse
The verse appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 26:1, following the plague that struck Bnei Yisrael due to their involvement with the daughters of Moav and the worship of Baal Peor (Bamidbar 25:9). The plague resulted in the death of 24,000 people. Rashi explains that this new communication from Hashem to Moshe and Elazar marks a transition—from judgment to renewal—as the generation that left Egypt had perished, and a new census was about to be taken before entering Eretz Yisrael.
Why Moshe and Elazar?
Rashi notes that Aharon had already passed away (Bamidbar 20:28), and his son Elazar now served as Kohen Gadol in his place. The Torah emphasizes Elazar’s lineage ("son of Aharon the Kohen") to highlight the continuity of the priesthood. Ramban adds that this was a moment of national reorganization, requiring both Moshe (the leader) and Elazar (the spiritual authority) to prepare Bnei Yisrael for their next phase.
The Significance of "After the Plague"
Lessons in Leadership
The Sforno explains that Moshe and Elazar were chosen to convey the next instructions because leadership must guide the people both in times of punishment and renewal. The Talmud (Yoma 22b) teaches that true leadership requires balancing justice with compassion, as seen here—Hashem first administered justice (the plague) and then compassion (the new directive).