Numbers 31:44 - War spoils' sacrificial implications?

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Hebrew Text

וּבָקָר שִׁשָּׁה וּשְׁלֹשִׁים אָלֶף׃

English Translation

and thirty six thousand head of beef,

Transliteration

Uvakar shisha ushloshim elef.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּבָקָ֕ר שִׁשָּׁ֥ה וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים אָֽלֶף׃

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

The verse "וּבָקָר שִׁשָּׁה וּשְׁלֹשִׁים אָלֶף" (and thirty-six thousand head of beef) appears in Bamidbar (Numbers) 31:38, within the context of the spoils taken from the Midianites after the war commanded by Hashem. This was part of the distribution of the spoils among the Israelites, the Levites, and a portion designated for Hashem.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bamidbar 31:38) explains that the 36,000 cattle were part of the spoils of war from Midian. He notes that this large number reflects the wealth of Midian, as cattle were a significant part of their possessions. Rashi also connects this to the earlier census in the Torah, emphasizing that the spoils were divided proportionally among the people.

Symbolic and Halachic Significance

Wealth of Midian: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 22:4) highlights that Midian was a prosperous nation, and their vast herds of cattle were a sign of their material abundance. The spoils were a form of divine compensation for the suffering of Bnei Yisrael.
Division of Spoils: The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 8:1) discusses the laws of war spoils, explaining that a portion was always set aside for the Mishkan or Beit HaMikdash, reinforcing the idea that material success must be sanctified.
Korbanot: The large number of cattle also had practical implications, as many were likely used for sacrifices (korbanot) in gratitude for the military victory, as seen in other wars (e.g., Shmuel I 15:15).

Numerological Insight (Gematria)

The number 36 (שִׁשָּׁה וּשְׁלֹשִׁים) is significant in Jewish thought. The Talmud (Sukkah 45b) mentions the concept of the "36 hidden righteous individuals" (ל"ו צדיקים נסתרים) who sustain the world. While this is not a direct correlation, some commentators suggest that the abundance here hints at divine providence in sustaining Klal Yisrael through material means.

Practical Lessons

This verse teaches that even in times of war and material gain, the Torah emphasizes:

Gratitude: Recognizing that wealth comes from Hashem (as seen in the portion given to the Mishkan).
Fair Distribution: The spoils were divided equitably among the people, soldiers, and Levi'im, reflecting the Torah's emphasis on justice.
Sanctification of Material Wealth: Using physical possessions for holy purposes, such as korbanot or supporting the Mishkan.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the 36,000 cattle mentioned in Numbers 31:44?
A: The 36,000 cattle were part of the spoils of war from the battle against Midian, as described in Numbers 31. According to Rashi, these cattle were counted separately from the sheep and other animals to show the great wealth that was captured. The large number highlights Hashem's kindness in granting the Israelites victory and abundant spoils.

Q: Why does the Torah specify the exact number of cattle in Numbers 31:44?
A: The Torah often gives precise numbers to teach us the importance of accounting for what we receive and to show gratitude for Hashem's blessings. The Midrash explains that counting the spoils demonstrates that everything comes from Hashem and should be used for holy purposes. The exact number also emphasizes the fulfillment of Hashem's promise to make Israel prosperous.

Q: How were the 36,000 cattle divided among the Israelites?
A: According to Numbers 31:27-30, the spoils, including the cattle, were divided equally between the soldiers who fought and the rest of the community. A portion was also set aside as a tribute to Hashem and given to the Kohanim (priests) and Levi'im (Levites). This teaches the values of fairness, sharing, and acknowledging Hashem's role in their success.

Q: What lesson can we learn from the large number of cattle in Numbers 31:44?
A: The large number of cattle reminds us that material blessings come from Hashem and should be used responsibly. The Rambam teaches that wealth is a test—it can be used for mitzvot (commandments) and charity or misused for selfish purposes. This verse encourages us to recognize Hashem's gifts and use them for holiness.