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This week we’ll explore the double Torah portion of Matot-Masei. This portion will summarize the lessons of Bamidbar (Numbers) before moving on to Deuteronomy and Moshes’ final speech. Vows, personal priorities, and a surprising tribal connection between Reuben, Gad, and Moses are all in store! Shabbat Shalom!
Loved the observation of wanting to be close to Moses – a man of God means more than the Holy Land as wonderful as it is.
Very Interesting comments regarding wanting to be close to Moses. i have never seen that before. However, the altercation between the tribe of Reuben and Manasseh, and the rest of Israel clearly did not embrace that of closeness to Moses. I recall that it was Phineas in a subsequent discord had to make peace between Israel and those who stayed west of the Jordan over the issue of the separate altar. Nevertheless, it appeared to be a matter of honour and loyalty that caused the debate between these tribes and Manasseh and Reuben were obliged to make and fulfil a vow and to carry it out. Shmuel makes a powerful point here: We are to do what we say, or vow. Every statement of loyalty, especially to Israel as G-d’s chosen people, should be as a vow. This is a strong point of behavioural reliability, and, in the matter of Israel’s present day state and what she is facing, that has serious implications for us in the nations; we are so fickle, and will be judged for our fickle behaviour.