Numbers 34:18 - Tribal leaders inherit the land

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Hebrew Text

וְנָשִׂיא אֶחָד נָשִׂיא אֶחָד מִמַּטֶּה תִּקְחוּ לִנְחֹל אֶת־הָאָרֶץ׃

English Translation

And you shall take one prince of every tribe, to divide the land by inheritance.

Transliteration

Ve'nasi echad nasi echad mi'mate tikchu linchol et-ha'aretz.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְנָשִׂ֥יא אֶחָ֛ד נָשִׂ֥יא אֶחָ֖ד מִמַּטֶּ֑ה תִּקְח֖וּ לִנְחֹ֥ל אֶת־הָאָֽרֶץ׃

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bamidbar 34:18) appears in the context of Hashem's instructions to Moshe regarding the division of Eretz Yisrael among the tribes. The appointment of a nasi (prince) from each tribe was essential to ensure a fair and orderly distribution of the land.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi comments that the repetition of the phrase "nasi echad, nasi echad" ("one prince, one prince") emphasizes that each tribe was to have equal representation in this process. This underscores the principle of fairness and impartiality in dividing the land, ensuring no tribe felt slighted.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Terumot (1:5), Rambam discusses the role of leaders in communal matters. The selection of a nasi from each tribe reflects the importance of having respected representatives to oversee significant national tasks, such as land allocation, with integrity and wisdom.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash Tanchuma (Bamidbar 12) elaborates that these princes were chosen for their righteousness and leadership qualities. Their role was not only administrative but also spiritual, ensuring the division of the land aligned with Divine will and the tribes' unique spiritual missions.

Practical Implications

Equal Representation: Each tribe had one representative, preventing disputes and ensuring balanced participation.
Leadership Qualifications: The princes were selected for their moral and administrative capabilities, setting a standard for future Jewish leadership.
Divine Connection: The division was not merely a physical act but a fulfillment of Hashem's promise to the Avot, imbuing the process with holiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Numbers 34:18 mean when it says to take 'one prince from every tribe'?
A: This verse instructs that each of the twelve tribes of Israel should appoint one leader (called a 'nasi' or prince) to help oversee the fair division of the Land of Israel among the tribes. Rashi explains that these princes were respected leaders chosen to ensure an orderly and just distribution of the land according to tribal inheritance.

Q: Why was it important to have one leader from each tribe for dividing the land?
A: The Torah emphasizes fairness and transparency in dividing the Land of Israel. By appointing one representative from each tribe (as seen in Numbers 34:18), there would be no suspicion of bias. The Talmud (Bava Batra 122a) teaches that this system ensured each tribe received its rightful portion, preventing disputes and maintaining unity among the Jewish people.

Q: What can we learn from Numbers 34:18 about leadership today?
A: This verse teaches that good leadership involves representation and fairness. Just as each tribe had a leader to advocate for their interests, today's leaders must act with integrity and ensure justice for all. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 2:7) derives from such verses that leaders must be wise, humble, and committed to the welfare of the people they represent.

Q: How does the division of the land in Numbers 34:18 apply to the Jewish people today?
A: While the actual division of the land occurred in biblical times, the principle of fair distribution and tribal identity remains relevant. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 21:13) connects this to the eternal bond between the Jewish people and the Land of Israel. Even today, Jewish law (halacha) discusses inheritance laws based on these biblical principles.