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Numbers 34:22 - Dan's leader: Who was Buqqi?

Numbers 34:22 - במדבר 34:22

Hebrew Text

וּלְמַטֵּה בְנֵי־דָן נָשִׂיא בֻּקִּי בֶּן־יָגְלִי׃

English Translation

And the prince of the tribe of the children of Dan, Buqqi the son of Yogli.

Transliteration

Ulematteh venei-dan nasi buki ben-yagli.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּלְמַטֵּ֥ה בְנֵי־דָ֖ן נָשִׂ֑יא בֻּקִּ֖י בֶּן־יׇגְלִֽי׃
וּלְמַטֵּ֥ה בְנֵי־דָ֖ן נָשִׂ֑יא בֻּקִּ֖י בֶּן־יׇגְלִֽי׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Introduction to the Verse

The verse (Numbers 34:22) lists the tribal leaders appointed to assist in the division of the Land of Israel. Here, Buqqi ben Yogli is named as the prince (nasi) of the tribe of Dan. This reflects the Torah's emphasis on orderly leadership and the importance of each tribe's representation in sacred tasks.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) notes that Buqqi's father, Yogli, is mentioned to emphasize lineage, as tribal leadership often passed through distinguished families. Rashi also highlights that the name "Buqqi" may derive from the root בקק (to examine or investigate), suggesting his role in carefully overseeing the land division.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 21:14) connects Buqqi's name to the tribe of Dan's future role in justice, as seen in Samson (a Danite judge). The name "Yogli" (from יגל, "he will reveal") hints at divine justice being revealed through righteous leaders.

Rambam on Tribal Leadership

Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchot Melachim (Laws of Kings 1:3) discusses how tribal princes were chosen for wisdom and integrity. Buqqi's appointment underscores the principle that leaders must be morally and intellectually fit to represent their people in sacred matters.

Symbolism of Dan's Representation

  • Last in Order: Dan was the last tribe listed in many contexts (e.g., encampment order), yet their prince was equally honored—teaching that all tribes are essential in fulfilling Hashem's plan.
  • Legacy of Service: The Talmud (Sotah 10a) notes that Dan's descendants (like Oholiav in Exodus 31:6) were skilled artisans, showing how each tribe contributes uniquely to Klal Yisrael.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Buqqi the son of Yogli mentioned in Numbers 34:22?
A: Buqqi the son of Yogli was the tribal leader (nasi) appointed to represent the tribe of Dan when the Land of Israel was being divided among the twelve tribes. According to Rashi, these leaders were chosen for their wisdom and righteousness to oversee the fair distribution of the land.
Q: Why does the Torah list the names of tribal leaders like Buqqi in Numbers 34?
A: The Torah lists these leaders to emphasize the importance of having trustworthy and righteous individuals oversee sacred tasks, such as dividing the Land of Israel. The Midrash teaches that these leaders were selected for their integrity, ensuring that the land distribution was conducted fairly and according to Hashem's will.
Q: What can we learn from the mention of Buqqi in the Torah?
A: We learn the value of leadership and responsibility. Buqqi, like the other tribal leaders, was chosen to fulfill a holy mission, showing that even administrative roles in Jewish life must be handled with sincerity and devotion. The Rambam teaches that leadership is a sacred trust, and Buqqi's role exemplifies this principle.
Q: Why is the tribe of Dan specifically mentioned with its leader in this verse?
A: Each tribe had its own unique role in the Jewish people, and Dan's inclusion here highlights their equal standing in receiving a portion of the Land of Israel. The Talmud (Sotah 10a) notes that Dan was sometimes overlooked, but the Torah makes sure to emphasize their rightful place among the tribes.