Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was Hanniel ben Efod mentioned in Numbers 34:23?
A: Hanniel ben Efod was the tribal leader (nasi) appointed to represent the tribe of Menashe, one of the sons of Yosef, during the division of the Land of Israel. The Torah lists him among the leaders chosen to help allocate portions of the land (Rashi on Numbers 34:18).
Q: Why does the verse mention Yosef before Menashe?
A: The verse mentions Yosef first because Menashe was one of Yosef's two sons (along with Ephraim), and the Torah often refers to them collectively as the 'house of Yosef.' This acknowledges their special status as full tribes despite being grandsons of Yaakov (Bereishit 48:5; Ramban on Numbers 34:23).
Q: What was the role of Hanniel ben Efod as a 'nasi'?
A: As a nasi (tribal leader), Hanniel ben Efod had the responsibility of representing the tribe of Menashe in matters concerning the division of the Land of Israel. He worked with other leaders to ensure a fair distribution according to Hashem's command (Sifrei on Numbers 34:18).
Q: Why is the division of the Land of Israel important in the Torah?
A: The division of the Land of Israel was a fulfillment of Hashem's promise to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov. Each tribe received its portion as an eternal inheritance, emphasizing the connection between the Jewish people and the land (Rambam, Hilchot Terumot 1:5; Talmud, Bava Batra 122a).
Q: Does the tribe of Menashe still have a portion in Israel today?
A: While the original tribal boundaries were designated in biblical times, the exact locations are not fully identifiable today. However, our tradition teaches that in the future, with the coming of Mashiach, the tribal portions will be restored as prophesied (Yechezkel 48:4; Rambam, Hilchot Melachim 11:1).
Context in the Torah
The verse (Bamidbar 34:23) lists the tribal leaders appointed to assist in dividing the Land of Israel among the tribes. Ḥanni᾽el ben Efod is designated as the nasi (prince) representing the tribe of Menasheh, one of the two tribes descended from Yosef.
Role of Ḥanni᾽el ben Efod
Rashi explains that these leaders were chosen for their wisdom and righteousness to ensure a fair and equitable division of the land. As a nasi, Ḥanni᾽el had the responsibility to advocate for his tribe's portion while maintaining unity among Bnei Yisrael.
Connection to Yosef
The verse emphasizes "the children of Yosef" before specifying Menasheh, highlighting the dual-tribe inheritance from Yosef (Menasheh and Ephraim). Ramban notes that this phrasing reflects Yosef's elevated status, as his descendants received two tribal portions in Eretz Yisrael.
Meaning of the Name Ḥanni᾽el
Significance of "ben Efod"
Ibn Ezra suggests Efod may refer to the priestly garment, implying Ḥanni᾽el came from a family with priestly connections. Alternatively, Sforno states it indicates his father's prominence, as the efod was associated with leadership (see Shemuel I 23:6).
Lessons in Leadership
The Talmud (Yoma 22b) derives from such appointments that leaders must be: