Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 31:52 mean?
A: Numbers 31:52 describes the amount of gold collected as an offering to Hashem after the battle against Midian. The leaders of thousands and hundreds donated a total of 16,750 shekels of gold as a voluntary tribute to express gratitude for their victory. Rashi explains that this was a gesture of thanksgiving for the safe return of the soldiers.
Q: Why is the specific amount of gold mentioned in Numbers 31:52 important?
A: The Torah specifies the exact amount (16,750 shekels) to emphasize the generosity and sincerity of the donation. According to the Midrash, the leaders wanted to atone for any improper thoughts they may have had during the war, and giving a precise, significant amount demonstrated their wholehearted commitment to serving Hashem.
Q: What can we learn from the leaders' donation in Numbers 31:52?
A: We learn the importance of expressing gratitude to Hashem after experiencing success or salvation. The leaders set an example by voluntarily donating gold from the spoils of war, showing that material gains should inspire us to give back spiritually. The Rambam teaches that recognizing Hashem's kindness motivates us to acts of charity and devotion.
Q: How does Numbers 31:52 apply to us today?
A: Just as the leaders donated gold to acknowledge Hashem's role in their victory, we too should recognize His hand in our successes and respond with acts of kindness, charity, or increased Torah study. The Talmud (Berachot 54a) teaches that one who experiences a miracle should make a public declaration of gratitude, whether through prayer, tzedakah, or other mitzvot.
Q: Why did only the leaders donate gold in Numbers 31:52?
A: The leaders (captains of thousands and hundreds) took the initiative to donate as representatives of the people, setting a spiritual example. Rashi notes that their role carried greater responsibility, so they felt compelled to demonstrate extra devotion. The Midrash Tanchuma adds that their elevated status meant their actions had a greater impact on inspiring others.
The Significance of the Gold Offering
The verse (Shemot 38:24) details the amount of gold contributed by the leaders of Israel for the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, this gold was specifically donated by the sarim (officers) who had sinned with the Golden Calf (Shemot 32). Their generous contribution served as an act of repentance and atonement for their earlier transgression.
The Precise Calculation of the Shekels
The total amount—16,750 shekels—is meticulously recorded to emphasize the sincerity of their repentance. The Ramban explains that the Torah specifies exact numbers to demonstrate that every contribution was accounted for with integrity, reflecting the sanctity of the Mishkan project. The Midrash Tanchuma (Pekudei 4) further notes that this gold was used exclusively for the Kodesh HaKodashim (Holy of Holies), including the Ark and the Keruvim, symbolizing complete spiritual renewal.
Leadership and Collective Responsibility
The mention of the sarim (captains of thousands and hundreds) highlights their role in both the sin and the rectification. The Talmud (Yoma 86b) teaches that true repentance transforms past misdeeds into merits. By leading the donations, these officers modeled accountability, showing that leaders must take responsibility for their actions and inspire others toward teshuvah (repentance).
Symbolism of the Number 16,750