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Numbers 36:7 - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever? - Tribal land stays forever?

Numbers 36:7 - במדבר 36:7

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Bava Batra 120a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the laws of inheritance and the prohibition against transferring land from one tribe to another.

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Hebrew Text

וְלֹא־תִסֹּב נַחֲלָה לִבְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל מִמַּטֶּה אֶל־מַטֶּה כִּי אִישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת מַטֵּה אֲבֹתָיו יִדְבְּקוּ בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל׃

English Translation

So the inheritance of the children of Yisra᾽el shall not remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Yisra᾽el shall cleave to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.

Transliteration

Ve-lo tisov nachala livnei Yisrael mi-mate el mate ki ish be-nachalat mate avotav yidbeku bnei Yisrael.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְלֹֽא־תִסֹּ֤ב נַחֲלָה֙ לִבְנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל מִמַּטֶּ֖ה אֶל־מַטֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י אִ֗ישׁ בְּנַחֲלַת֙ מַטֵּ֣ה אֲבֹתָ֔יו יִדְבְּק֖וּ בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

Parasha Commentary

Overview of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 36:7) establishes a fundamental principle regarding the inheritance of land in Eretz Yisrael: tribal land holdings must remain within their respective tribes and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This law ensures the preservation of each tribe's ancestral portion as designated by Hashem during the division of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 36:7) clarifies that this prohibition applies specifically to the transfer of land through inheritance, such as when daughters inherit from their fathers (as discussed earlier in the perek). The verse emphasizes that even in such cases, the land must eventually return to its original tribe—either through the daughters marrying within their own tribe or through the Yovel (Jubilee) year, when all ancestral lands revert to their original owners.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) codifies this law, stating that tribal inheritance is a permanent division established by Divine decree. He explains that this system maintains the integrity of each tribe's portion, reflecting the unique spiritual role and mission of each shevet (tribe) within Klal Yisrael.

Talmudic and Midrashic Insights

  • The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) derives from this verse that the prohibition applies only to transfers between tribes, not within a tribe.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 8) connects this law to the deeper concept that each tribe's portion reflects its unique spiritual character, comparing it to different limbs of a single body.
  • The Sifrei (Bamidbar 36:7) emphasizes that this law applies specifically to the original division of Eretz Yisrael, not to land acquired afterward.

Philosophical and Halachic Implications

This law teaches several important principles:

  • The sanctity of tribal identity within the unity of Klal Yisrael
  • The importance of maintaining ancestral connections to the land
  • The balance between individual rights and communal structure
  • The concept that land in Eretz Yisrael is not merely property but a sacred trust

Contemporary Relevance

While the practical application of these laws depends on the proper functioning of the Yovel system (currently not in practice), the underlying principles remain significant. They remind us of:

  • The eternal connection between Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael
  • The importance of preserving Jewish heritage and tradition
  • The value of maintaining distinct communities within broader Jewish unity

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 36:7 mean?
A: Numbers 36:7 teaches that the land inheritance given to each tribe in Israel must remain within that tribe and not transfer permanently to another tribe. This ensures that the ancestral land stays connected to the families and tribes to whom it was originally allotted, maintaining the Divine distribution of the Land of Israel.
Q: Why is this law about inheritance important?
A: This law is important because it preserves the tribal structure and identity of the Jewish people, as established by Hashem. Rashi explains that keeping land within each tribe prevents the mixing of tribal boundaries and honors the original division made in the time of Joshua. The Rambam (Hilchot Nachalot 1:1-2) also emphasizes that this law maintains family heritage and prevents disputes over land ownership.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: While the practical laws of tribal land inheritance are not fully applicable today due to the absence of the Jubilee year and the current exile, the principle of preserving family and communal heritage remains important. Jewish tradition teaches us to honor our ancestral roots and maintain the unique roles and responsibilities of each tribe within the broader Jewish nation.
Q: What can we learn from this verse about Jewish identity?
A: This verse teaches that Jewish identity is deeply connected to both family lineage and tribal heritage. The Talmud (Bava Batra 120a) discusses how the tribes maintained their distinct roles, such as Torah scholarship (Levi) and kingship (Judah). Even today, while tribal distinctions are not as prominent, we recognize the importance of preserving our family traditions and communal roles within Judaism.
Q: Does this mean women couldn't inherit land in the Torah?
A: No, the Torah (Numbers 27:1-11) actually establishes that daughters can inherit if there are no sons. However, to prevent land from permanently transferring to another tribe, Numbers 36 requires that women who inherit land must marry within their own tribe (as seen with the daughters of Tzelafchad). This balances fairness in inheritance with maintaining tribal boundaries.

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