Numbers 27:16 - Divinely chosen leader needed

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Hebrew Text

יִפְקֹד יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵי הָרוּחֹת לְכָל־בָּשָׂר אִישׁ עַל־הָעֵדָה׃

English Translation

Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation,

Transliteration

Yifkod Adonai Elohei haruchot lekol basar ish al ha'edah.

Hebrew Leining Text

יִפְקֹ֣ד יְהֹוָ֔ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י הָרוּחֹ֖ת לְכׇל־בָּשָׂ֑ר אִ֖ישׁ עַל־הָעֵדָֽה׃

Parasha Commentary

Understanding the Verse

The verse, "יִפְקֹד יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵי הָרוּחֹת לְכָל־בָּשָׂר אִישׁ עַל־הָעֵדָה" (Bamidbar 27:16), appears in the context of Moshe Rabbeinu's plea to Hashem to appoint a successor to lead Bnei Yisrael after his passing. The phrase "אֱלֹהֵי הָרוּחֹת לְכָל־בָּשָׂר" ("God of the spirits of all flesh") is particularly significant and is expounded upon by our commentators.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 27:16) explains that this title for Hashem emphasizes His omniscience and understanding of each individual's unique nature. The term "רוּחֹת" (spirits) is plural, indicating that Hashem knows the diverse temperaments, thoughts, and inclinations of every person. Therefore, Moshe requests a leader who can relate to and guide each member of the congregation according to their individual needs.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchos De'os (1:6), the Rambam discusses the importance of a leader's ability to understand and relate to different personalities. This aligns with Moshe's request for a leader appointed by "אֱלֹהֵי הָרוּחֹת", who can navigate the complexities of human nature with wisdom and compassion.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 21:15) elaborates that Moshe's choice of words reflects his deep concern for Klal Yisrael. By invoking "אֱלֹהֵי הָרוּחֹת", Moshe underscores that the future leader must be capable of unifying the people despite their differences, just as Hashem oversees and understands every individual spirit.

Key Themes

Divine Knowledge: Hashem's intimate understanding of every human being's inner world.
Leadership Qualities: A true leader must possess the wisdom to guide diverse individuals with patience and insight.
Unity Amid Diversity: The congregation's strength lies in its varied spirits, harmonized under righteous leadership.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 22b

The verse is referenced in a discussion about leadership and the qualities required for those who lead the congregation.

📖 Sanhedrin 8a

The verse is cited in the context of appointing leaders and the divine aspect of leadership selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'God of the spirits of all flesh' mean in Numbers 27:16?
A: Rashi explains that this phrase emphasizes that God knows the unique character and thoughts of every individual ('spirits of all flesh'). Moshe used this description when asking God to appoint a leader who could properly guide each person according to their individual needs.

Q: Why did Moshe ask God to appoint a leader in Numbers 27:16?
A: Moshe was preparing for his passing and wanted to ensure the Jewish people would have a worthy successor. As the Midrash notes, Moshe demonstrated selfless leadership by prioritizing the community's needs even as his own life was ending.

Q: What lesson can we learn from Moshe's request for a leader in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Bava Batra 8a) derives from here that every community needs proper leadership. Additionally, Moshe teaches us to be concerned for future generations by ensuring continuity of Torah leadership before one's passing.