Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a 'sacrifice of peace offerings' mentioned in Numbers 7:77?
A: A 'sacrifice of peace offerings' (זֶבַח הַשְּׁלָמִים) is a type of korban (offering) brought to express gratitude, fulfill a vow, or as a voluntary gift to Hashem. It symbolizes peace and closeness between the person bringing it and Hashem. The Talmud (Zevachim 5a) explains that parts of it are burned on the altar, parts are given to the kohanim (priests), and parts are eaten by the person bringing it, creating a shared meal of sorts.
Q: Why does the verse list specific numbers of animals (2 oxen, 5 rams, etc.)?
A: The specific numbers represent the exact offering brought by Pag῾i᾽el ben ῾Okhran, the prince of the tribe of Asher, during the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Each tribal leader brought identical offerings (as seen in Numbers 7), showing unity among the tribes. Rashi explains that although the offerings were the same, each leader had unique intentions and devotion behind their gift.
Q: What is the significance of bringing five of each animal (rams, goats, lambs)?
A: The number five often symbolizes completeness or significance in Jewish thought. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:15) suggests that these offerings correspond to the Five Books of the Torah, emphasizing that the tribes' dedication to the Mishkan was rooted in Torah values. Additionally, multiples of five may represent the idea of spiritual abundance in serving Hashem.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring korbanot today, the Rambam (Hilchot Dei'ot 3:3) teaches that prayer and acts of kindness can take the place of sacrifices. The peace offering reminds us to seek harmony with Hashem and others. Additionally, studying the laws of korbanot (as in Menachot 110a) is considered meritorious, as it keeps the memory of the Temple alive and prepares us for its future rebuilding.
Q: Why is Pag῾i᾽el's name mentioned specifically in this verse?
A: Torah mentions each tribal leader by name to honor their individual contributions to the Mishkan. Rashi notes that even though all leaders brought identical offerings, each had unique sincerity. Pag῾i᾽el's name means 'Divine encounter' (from 'paga' - encounter + 'El' - G-d), hinting at his deep connection to Hashem through this offering. This teaches that communal service should also reflect personal devotion.
Understanding the Verse in Context
This verse appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 7:67 as part of the offerings brought by the tribal leaders during the dedication of the Mishkan. Pag῾i᾽el ben ῾Okhran, representing the tribe of Asher, brings a peace offering (zevach shelamim) consisting of oxen, rams, goats, and lambs. The peace offering is unique in that it is shared between the altar, the kohanim, and the owner, symbolizing peace and harmony between Hashem, the priests, and the people.
Significance of the Numbers
Rashi notes that the numbers of animals (two oxen, five rams, five goats, five lambs) correspond to the offerings brought by all the tribal leaders, emphasizing unity in their dedication to the Mishkan. The repetition of the number five may allude to the five books of the Torah, suggesting that their service was rooted in Torah observance.
The Nature of the Peace Offering (Shelamim)
The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot 9:1) explains that the shelamim offering expresses gratitude and joy, fostering a sense of closeness to Hashem. Unlike other sacrifices, parts of the shelamim are eaten by the owner and their household, creating a sacred meal that strengthens communal and spiritual bonds.
Pag῾i᾽el ben ῾Okhran's Role
The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:15) highlights that Pag῾i᾽el's name means "intervention of G-d," symbolizing his role in facilitating a connection between the people and the Divine. His offering reflects the tribe of Asher's blessing of abundance (Bereishit 49:20), as seen in the generous quantity of animals brought.
Symbolism of the Animals