Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Reuben called the 'eldest son of Israel' in Numbers 26:5?
A: Reuben is called the 'eldest son of Israel' because he was the firstborn of Jacob (Israel). This verse emphasizes his status as the firstborn, which traditionally came with certain privileges and responsibilities in the family structure, as discussed in the Torah (Genesis 29:32) and later commentaries like Rashi.
Q: What is the significance of listing the families of Reuben in Numbers 26:5?
A: Listing the families of Reuben (the families of Hanokh and Pallu) is part of the census taken in the wilderness to organize the tribes of Israel for inheritance, military service, and tribal roles. This reflects the importance of lineage and family structure in Jewish tradition, as seen in the Talmud and Midrashic sources.
Q: What can we learn from the mention of Reuben's descendants in this verse?
A: This verse teaches the importance of preserving family identity and tribal lineage in Judaism. Even though Reuben lost his firstborn rights due to his actions (Genesis 35:22, 49:3-4), his descendants are still counted, showing that every tribe has a role in the Jewish people, as emphasized by commentators like Ramban.
Q: Why are the families named after Hanokh and Pallu in Numbers 26:5?
A: The families are named after Hanokh and Pallu, Reuben's sons, to establish their distinct lineages within the tribe. This naming convention was common in Israelite society to maintain clear family records for inheritance and tribal affiliation, as explained in traditional sources like the Talmud (Bava Batra 109b).
Q: How does this verse about Reuben's descendants apply to Jewish life today?
A: While tribal identities are not as prominent today, this verse reminds us of the value of family heritage and continuity in Jewish tradition. Many Jews still trace their lineage (e.g., Kohen, Levi, Yisrael) for certain mitzvot, reflecting the enduring importance of ancestral connections, as discussed in halachic works like the Mishneh Torah.
The Status of Reuven as Firstborn
The verse begins by identifying Reuven as "בְּכוֹר יִשְׂרָאֵל" (the firstborn of Israel). Rashi (Bamidbar 26:5) notes that despite Reuven losing his firstborn status due to his earlier transgression (see Bereishit 35:22 and 49:4), the Torah still acknowledges his natural position as Yaakov's firstborn son. The Ramban (Bamidbar 26:5) adds that this title is retained here in the census to preserve the historical record of tribal lineage, even though the privileges of the firstborn were transferred to Yosef (Divrei Hayamim I 5:1-2).
The Families of Reuven
The verse lists two primary families descending from Reuven: חֲנוֹךְ (Chanokh) and פַלּוּא (Pallu). The Sforno (Bamidbar 26:5) explains that these names reflect the foundational families of the tribe, which later subdivided into smaller clans during the sojourn in Egypt. The repetition of "מִשְׁפַּחַת" (family) for each name emphasizes their distinct identities within the tribe.
Lessons from the Tribal Structure
The Baal HaTurim (Bamidbar 26:5) observes that the detailed listing of families underscores the importance of every individual in Klal Yisrael. Even though Reuven lost certain privileges, his descendants remained integral to the nation. The Talmud (Bava Batra 121b) teaches that tribal lineage was meticulously recorded to maintain the sanctity of Jewish identity, particularly for matters like inheritance and marriage.
Reuven's Legacy of Repentance
The inclusion of Reuven's descendants in the census reflects the principle of תשובה (repentance). The Kli Yakar (Bamidbar 26:5) notes that despite Reuven's past mistakes, his sincere repentance (as alluded to in Devarim 33:6) ensured his tribe's enduring place among Bnei Yisrael. This serves as a reminder that teshuva can restore one's spiritual standing.