Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 31:28 mean?
A: Numbers 31:28 instructs that after a battle, a portion of the spoils (one out of every 500 items) must be given as a tribute to Hashem. This includes people, cattle, donkeys, and sheep. Rashi explains that this was a way to acknowledge that victory in battle comes from G-d, and to express gratitude by dedicating part of the spoils to the Mishkan (Tabernacle) or the Kohanim (priests).
Q: Why was this tribute given to Hashem?
A: The tribute was given to Hashem to recognize that success in battle is ultimately from Him. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that this mitzvah reinforces the idea that material gains should not lead to arrogance, but rather to humility and gratitude. By setting aside a portion for holy purposes, soldiers were reminded of their spiritual obligations even in times of victory.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: While we no longer wage battles as described in the Torah, the principle of acknowledging G-d's role in our successes remains relevant. Today, this can be applied by giving tzedakah (charity) or supporting Torah study when we experience financial or personal success, following the idea of dedicating a portion of our 'spoils' to holy causes.
Q: Why was the ratio one out of five hundred?
A: The Midrash explains that the ratio of 1:500 was specifically chosen to balance gratitude with practicality. It was a significant enough amount to show devotion to Hashem, but not so large as to be burdensome for the soldiers. This teaches us that mitzvot should be meaningful yet achievable in our daily lives.
Q: Who received the tribute mentioned in this verse?
A: According to the Talmud (Chullin 11a), this tribute was given to the Kohanim (priests) for the service of the Mishkan. Later, it would have been used for the maintenance of the Beit HaMikdash (Temple). The Kohanim, as servants of Hashem, were the rightful recipients of these dedicated offerings.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bamidbar 31:28) appears in the context of the war against Midian, where Hashem commands Moshe regarding the distribution of spoils. The verse instructs taking a tribute (meches) for Hashem from the soldiers' portion of the spoils—one out of every five hundred captured persons, cattle, donkeys, and sheep.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that this tribute was given to the Kohanim (priests) as a form of terumah (sacred offering). The ratio of 1:500 is distinct from the standard terumas hamishkan (offering for the Tabernacle), which was 1:50. Rashi notes that this lower ratio (1:500) applies specifically to spoils of war, as the soldiers already risked their lives in battle (Rashi on Bamidbar 31:28).
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 8:1) discusses the laws of war spoils and confirms that this tribute was a unique obligation for wars fought under divine command (milchemes mitzvah). He emphasizes that the portion designated for the Kohanim is a recognition of Hashem's role in granting victory.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 527) elaborates that this mitzvah instills the principle that material gains—even those acquired through human effort—are ultimately from Hashem. By giving a portion to the Kohanim, the soldiers internalize that their victory was divinely ordained.
Symbolic Meaning
The Kli Yakar (Bamidbar 31:28) suggests that the ratio of 1:500 alludes to the five books of the Torah. Just as Torah is the foundation of Jewish life, the soldiers must recognize that their success stems from adherence to Hashem's commandments.