Numbers 9:2 - Observe Passover divinely commanded time

Overview of the Verse

The verse "וְיַעֲשׂוּ בְנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵל אֶת־הַפָּסַח בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ" (Bamidbar 9:2) commands Bnei Yisrael to observe the Korban Pesach (Paschal sacrifice) at its designated time. This mitzvah is foundational in Jewish tradition, as it commemorates Yetziat Mitzrayim (the Exodus from Egypt) and reaffirms our covenant with Hashem.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 9:2) emphasizes the importance of performing the Korban Pesach precisely at its appointed time ("בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ"). He notes that this mitzvah was given in the second year after the Exodus, reinforcing that it is an enduring obligation for future generations. Rashi also connects this verse to the concept of Pesach Sheni (the "Second Passover" in Bamidbar 9:6-13), which provides an opportunity for those who were ritually impure or distant to observe the mitzvah a month later.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Korban Pesach (1:1), the Rambam (Maimonides) elaborates on the obligation, stating that the Korban Pesach must be brought on the 14th of Nisan, as derived from this verse. He underscores that this mitzvah applies even when the Beit HaMikdash is not standing (in potential), highlighting its eternal significance in Jewish law.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 67) interprets the phrase "בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ" as teaching that the Korban Pesach overrides Shabbat when its date coincides with Shabbat. This demonstrates the supreme importance of fulfilling this mitzvah at its exact time, even if it requires performing actions (such as slaughtering and roasting the lamb) that would otherwise be prohibited on Shabbat.

Key Halachic Principles

• Timing: The Korban Pesach must be offered on the afternoon of the 14th of Nisan (Pesachim 58a).
• Collective Obligation: The mitzvah is binding on all of Klal Yisrael, as implied by the phrase "בְנֵי־יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Talmud Yerushalmi, Pesachim 7:1).
• Pesach Sheni: Those unable to bring the Korban Pesach in Nisan are given a second opportunity on the 14th of Iyar (Bamidbar 9:6-13).

Spiritual Significance

The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 380) explains that the Korban Pesach serves as a perpetual reminder of Hashem’s miracles in Egypt and our transition from slavery to freedom. By observing it "בְּמוֹעֲדוֹ," we reaffirm our commitment to Divine service and our identity as the nation chosen to receive the Torah.