Numbers 32:36 - Fortified cities for flocks?

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Hebrew Text

וְאֶת־בֵּית נִמְרָה וְאֶת־בֵּית הָרָן עָרֵי מִבְצָר וְגִדְרֹת צֹאן׃

English Translation

and Bet-nimra, and Bet-haran, fortified cities: and folds for sheep.

Transliteration

Ve-et beit Nimra ve-et beit Haran arei mivtzar ve-gidrot tzon.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאֶת־בֵּ֥ית נִמְרָ֖ה וְאֶת־בֵּ֣ית הָרָ֑ן עָרֵ֥י מִבְצָ֖ר וְגִדְרֹ֥ת צֹֽאן׃

Parasha Commentary

Geographical and Historical Context

The verse mentions two cities, Bet-nimra and Bet-haran, describing them as fortified cities with sheepfolds. These cities were located in the territory of the tribe of Gad, east of the Jordan River (see Bamidbar 32:36). Rashi, citing the Targum Onkelos, explains that these were well-protected settlements, emphasizing their strategic importance for defense and agriculture.

Fortified Cities (עָרֵי מִבְצָר)

The term עָרֵי מִבְצָר ("fortified cities") indicates that these were strongholds designed to protect the inhabitants from enemy attacks. The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 5:2) discusses the importance of fortified cities in securing borders, which aligns with the role of these cities as part of Gad's inheritance in Transjordan.

Sheepfolds (גִדְרֹת צֹאן)

The mention of גִדְרֹת צֹאן ("folds for sheep") highlights the pastoral nature of these regions. The Talmud (Bava Batra 80a) notes that areas with abundant grazing land were highly valued, as livestock was a primary source of wealth in ancient Israel. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 22:7) further connects this to the tribe of Gad's expertise in animal husbandry, as they were known for their large flocks (see Devarim 33:20-21).

Spiritual Symbolism

Some commentators, such as the Kli Yakar, draw a deeper lesson from the juxtaposition of fortifications and sheepfolds. They suggest that just as physical cities need protection, so too must one safeguard their spiritual "flock"—their Torah study and mitzvot—from negative influences. The Malbim adds that the dual nature of these cities (military and agricultural) reflects the balance between material and spiritual pursuits in Jewish life.

Relevance to the Tribe of Gad

The tribe of Gad, along with Reuven and half of Menashe, requested this land due to its suitability for livestock (Bamidbar 32:1-5).
Rashi (on Bamidbar 32:16) explains that their commitment to building sheepfolds demonstrated their dedication to providing for their families while still joining the other tribes in conquering Canaan.
The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) notes that these cities' fortifications later played a role in defending against Ammonite and Moabite incursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the cities Bet-nimra and Bet-haran mentioned in Numbers 32:36?
A: Bet-nimra and Bet-haran were fortified cities built by the tribes of Reuben and Gad in the territory east of the Jordan River. According to Rashi, these cities were strategically important for defense and also served as centers for their livestock, as indicated by the mention of 'folds for sheep.' This shows how the tribes fulfilled their promise to help conquer the land while also securing their own needs.

Q: Why does Numbers 32:36 mention 'folds for sheep' alongside fortified cities?
A: The verse highlights the dual purpose of these settlements—both as military strongholds ('fortified cities') and as pastoral hubs ('folds for sheep'). The Talmud (Bava Batra 80a) explains that the tribes of Reuben and Gad were wealthy in livestock (Numbers 32:1), so they needed secure places to protect their flocks while also contributing to the broader Israelite conquest of Canaan.

Q: How does this verse relate to the agreement made by Reuben and Gad with Moshe?
A: Earlier in Numbers 32, the tribes of Reuben and Gad requested to settle east of the Jordan because the land was good for their livestock. Moshe agreed on the condition that they first help the other tribes conquer Canaan (Numbers 32:20-22). This verse shows them fulfilling that promise by building fortified cities—demonstrating their commitment to both their own needs and the collective mission of Bnei Yisrael.

Q: What lesson can we learn from the mention of fortified cities and sheepfolds in this verse?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 6:1) teaches that securing one's livelihood and community is important, but it must not come at the expense of broader responsibilities. Here, Reuben and Gad balanced their personal needs (sheepfolds) with their duty to Klal Yisrael (fortified cities). This teaches us to prioritize both individual and communal obligations in a harmonious way.