Numbers 5:16 - Priest presents suspected wife

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Hebrew Text

וְהִקְרִיב אֹתָהּ הַכֹּהֵן וְהֶעֱמִדָהּ לִפְנֵי יְהוָה׃

English Translation

And the priest shall bring her near, and set her before the Lord:

Transliteration

Vehikriv ota hakohin vehe'emida lifnei Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהִקְרִ֥יב אֹתָ֖הּ הַכֹּהֵ֑ן וְהֶֽעֱמִדָ֖הּ לִפְנֵ֥י יְהֹוָֽה׃

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Numbers 5:16) appears in the context of the sotah ritual, the procedure for a woman suspected of adultery (sotah). The Torah outlines a detailed process involving the bringing of an offering and the administration of a solemn oath by the priest. The phrase "וְהִקְרִיב אֹתָהּ הַכֹּהֵן וְהֶעֱמִדָהּ לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" ("And the priest shall bring her near, and set her before the Lord") marks a critical moment in this ritual, where the woman is formally presented before Hashem in the Mishkan or Beit HaMikdash.

Explanation of the Ritual

Rashi (on Numbers 5:16) explains that the priest brings the woman near to the entrance of the Mishkan (or later, the Beit HaMikdash) to emphasize the gravity of the situation. Standing "before the Lord" signifies that this is a divine judgment, not merely a human legal proceeding. The Rambam (Hilchot Sotah 3:1) elaborates that this act is meant to instill awe and encourage confession if she is indeed guilty.

Symbolism of "Bringing Near"

Spiritual Proximity: The term "וְהִקְרִיב" ("bring near") suggests drawing the woman into a sacred space, underscoring that the matter is being judged by divine law.
Public Accountability: The Talmud (Sotah 7b) notes that this procedure was conducted in a visible location to serve as a deterrent, reinforcing the sanctity of marital fidelity.

The Role of the Priest

The priest's involvement is central, as he serves as an intermediary between the human and divine realms. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 9:9) highlights that the priest must act with compassion, ensuring the procedure is carried out with dignity and without undue humiliation, as the Torah seeks truth and justice, not vengeance.

Broader Ethical Lessons

Beyond the specific sotah law, this verse teaches about the seriousness of oaths and the consequences of sin. The Talmud (Sotah 2a) connects this to broader themes of trust and integrity in relationships, emphasizing that wrongdoing ultimately stands "before the Lord," who knows all hidden deeds.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 5:16 mean in the context of the Sotah ritual?
A: Numbers 5:16 describes part of the Sotah ritual, where a woman suspected of adultery is brought before the Kohen (priest) to stand before Hashem. According to Rashi, this emphasizes the seriousness of the matter, as it is judged in the presence of the Divine. The verse highlights the role of the Kohen in administering this sacred procedure.

Q: Why is the woman brought 'before the Lord' in Numbers 5:16?
A: The phrase 'before the Lord' refers to the Mishkan (Tabernacle) or later the Beit HaMikdash (Temple), where the Divine Presence dwelled. The Rambam explains that this location signifies that the truth of the matter will be revealed through a higher judgment, as only Hashem knows hidden things. It underscores that this is not a human judgment but a divine one.

Q: What can we learn from the Kohen's role in Numbers 5:16?
A: The Kohen's role in this verse teaches the importance of proper spiritual leadership in resolving disputes. The Talmud (Sotah 7a) explains that the Kohen acts as an intermediary to ensure the process is conducted with sanctity and fairness. This highlights the Torah's emphasis on justice and reverence for holy matters.

Q: How does the concept of 'standing before the Lord' apply today?
A: While the Sotah ritual is not practiced today (as it requires the Beit HaMikdash), the principle of 'standing before the Lord' reminds us that all actions are ultimately judged by Hashem. The Midrash teaches that we should live with awareness of divine accountability, ensuring our behavior aligns with Torah values even in private matters.