Numbers 33:20 - Journeying toward holiness

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Hebrew Text

וַיִּסְעוּ מֵרִמֹּן פָּרֶץ וַיַּחֲנוּ בְּלִבְנָה׃

English Translation

And they departed from Rimmon-pereż, and pitched in Livna.

Transliteration

Vayisu meRimon Parets vayachanu bLivna.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵרִמֹּ֣ן פָּ֑רֶץ וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּלִבְנָֽה׃

Parasha Commentary

Geographical Context

The verse describes the journey of the Israelites in the wilderness, moving from Rimmon-perez to Livna. According to Rashi (Bamidbar 33:20), Rimmon-perez is derived from the word "peretz" (פרץ), meaning "breach" or "cleft," suggesting a place characterized by rocky terrain or a split in the mountains. Livna, on the other hand, is associated with the Hebrew word "lavan" (לבן), meaning "white," possibly referring to chalky or limestone formations in the area.

Spiritual Significance

The Midrash Tanchuma (Masei 8) interprets these journeys allegorically, teaching that each encampment represents a stage in the spiritual development of the Jewish people. Moving from Rimmon-perez ("breach") to Livna ("white") symbolizes the transition from a state of brokenness or sin (represented by the breach) to purity and repentance (represented by whiteness). This aligns with the Talmudic teaching (Yoma 86b) that sincere repentance transforms intentional sins into merits, as white as snow.

Halachic Insights

Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshuvah 2:4) emphasizes that repentance requires leaving one's previous sinful state (symbolized by departing Rimmon-perez) and establishing oneself in a new, purified state (symbolized by encamping in Livna). The journey between these locations teaches that spiritual growth is a process requiring both departure from the old and commitment to the new.

Kabbalistic Interpretation

The Zohar (Bamidbar 157a) associates Livna with the sefirah of Chesed (kindness), suggesting that after overcoming obstacles (Rimmon-perez), one reaches a state of divine benevolence. The white color of Livna alludes to the purity of divine light, as described in Kabbalistic works such as the Pardes Rimonim.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 33:20 mean?
A: Numbers 33:20 describes one of the 42 journeys the Israelites made in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Here, they traveled from Rimmon-perez and camped in Livna. Rashi explains that these travels show God's kindness—even though they were being disciplined for the sin of the spies, He still guided them carefully through their journeys.

Q: Why is this verse important?
A: This verse is part of a larger list documenting all the Israelites' stops in the wilderness (Numbers 33). The Ramban teaches that recording these journeys reminds us of God's constant providence—even during difficult wanderings, He never abandoned His people. Each location also represents spiritual lessons for future generations.

Q: What can we learn from the names 'Rimmon-perez' and 'Livna'?
A: The Midrash often derives meaning from place names. 'Rimmon-perez' means 'pomegranate of the breach,' possibly alluding to challenges the people faced. 'Livna' means 'white,' symbolizing purification. The Sages teach that each stop refined the Israelites' faith, just as traveling from 'pomegranate' to 'white' suggests spiritual cleansing.