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Numbers 26:24 - Tribal lineage defines identity?

Numbers 26:24 - במדבר 26:24

Hebrew Text

לְיָשׁוּב מִשְׁפַּחַת הַיָּשׁוּבִי לְשִׁמְרֹן מִשְׁפַּחַת הַשִּׁמְרֹנִי׃

English Translation

of Yashuv, the family of the Yashuvi: of Shimron, the family of the Shimroni.

Transliteration

Le'yashuv mishpachat ha'yashuvi l'Shimron mishpachat ha'Shimroni.

Hebrew Leining Text

לְיָשׁ֕וּב מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת הַיָּשֻׁבִ֑י לְשִׁמְרֹ֕ן מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת הַשִּׁמְרֹנִֽי׃
לְיָשׁ֕וּב מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת הַיָּשֻׁבִ֑י לְשִׁמְרֹ֕ן מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת הַשִּׁמְרֹנִֽי׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

This verse appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 26:24, as part of the census of the tribes of Israel in the wilderness. It lists the families descended from Yissachar, specifically mentioning the families of Yashuv and Shimron.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that "Yashuv" and "Shimron" were sons of Yissachar (based on Bereishit 46:13). The verse uses the terms "mishpachat haYashuvi" and "mishpachat haShimroni" to denote the families descended from them. Rashi notes that the suffix "-i" (as in "Yashuvi" and "Shimroni") indicates lineage, meaning "belonging to Yashuv" or "belonging to Shimron."

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) elaborates on the significance of these names:

  • Yashuv (יָשׁוּב): Derived from the root שוב (to return), symbolizing repentance or returning to Hashem. The Midrash suggests this family was known for their spiritual dedication.
  • Shimron (שִׁמְרֹן): From the root שמר (to guard), indicating vigilance in mitzvot and Torah study. The family was associated with steadfastness in observance.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Shemitta v'Yovel 10:5-6) discusses the importance of tribal lineage in the Land of Israel. The detailed listing of families in the census, including Yashuvi and Shimroni, underscores the Torah's emphasis on preserving ancestral heritage and tribal distinctions, particularly for land inheritance.

Talmudic Connection

The Talmud (Bava Batra 121b) notes that the descendants of Yissachar were renowned for their Torah wisdom. The families of Yashuv and Shimron may have contributed to this reputation, as their names reflect spiritual qualities (returning to Hashem and guarding mitzvot).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the meaning of Numbers 26:24?
A: Numbers 26:24 lists the families descended from Yashuv and Shimron, who were sons of Issachar (as mentioned in Genesis 46:13). This verse is part of the census taken in the wilderness, recording the families of the tribe of Issachar. Rashi explains that these names represent ancestral houses within the tribe.
Q: Why is the census of families like Yashuvi and Shimroni important?
A: The census in Numbers 26 was important for allocating portions of the Land of Israel to each tribe fairly. Rambam (Maimonides) explains in Hilchot Nachalot that land inheritance was based on family lineage, making these records essential for dividing the land according to Hashem's command.
Q: What can we learn from the listing of families in Numbers 26:24?
A: This verse teaches the value of preserving family heritage and identity. The Talmud (Bava Batra 109b) discusses how tribal and family lineage played a role in Jewish tradition, showing that every family has a unique place within the nation of Israel.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish identity today?
A: While we no longer have tribal distinctions today, Orthodox Judaism still values family lineage (yichus), especially regarding Kohanim and Levi'im. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) emphasizes that every Jew has a special role, just as each family in the Torah had its unique contribution.