Numbers 34:28 - Tribal leaders' divine roles?

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Hebrew Text

וּלְמַטֵּה בְנֵי־נַפְתָּלִי נָשִׂיא פְּדַהְאֵל בֶּן־עַמִּיהוּד׃

English Translation

And the prince of the tribe of the children of Naftali, Pedah᾽el the son of ῾Ammihud.

Transliteration

Ulematteh venei-naphtali nasi pedahel ben-ammihud.

Hebrew Leining Text

וּלְמַטֵּ֥ה בְנֵֽי־נַפְתָּלִ֖י נָשִׂ֑יא פְּדַהְאֵ֖ל בֶּן־עַמִּיהֽוּד׃

Parasha Commentary

Introduction to the Verse

The verse (Numbers 34:28) lists Pedah'el ben 'Ammihud as the prince (נָשִׂיא) representing the tribe of Naftali during the division of the Land of Israel. This appointment reflects the Torah's emphasis on structured leadership and tribal representation in sacred matters.

Meaning of the Names

Pedah'el (פְּדַהְאֵל): Rashi (on Numbers 34:28) explains that the name means "God has redeemed" (פדה + אל), symbolizing divine salvation. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:15) connects this to the tribe of Naftali's role in future redemption, as Naftali is likened to a "hind let loose" (Genesis 49:21), swift in performing mitzvot.
'Ammihud (עַמִּיהוּד): The name means "my nation is glorious" (עמי + הוד), indicating the dignity of Israel. The Sforno notes that such names reflect the nobility of tribal leaders, who embodied the honor of their people.

Leadership of Naftali

The Talmud (Horayot 10a) teaches that tribal princes were chosen for their wisdom and righteousness. Pedah'el's role underscores Naftali's distinction, as the tribe was known for its diligence in Torah study and agricultural prosperity (Deuteronomy 33:23). The Kli Yakar adds that Naftali's portion in the Galilee was fertile, and its leaders exemplified gratitude to Hashem for this blessing.

Historical Context

According to Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 1:3), tribal princes were part of the broader system of judges and leaders appointed by Moshe. The Malbim emphasizes that Pedah'el's inclusion here highlights the orderly division of the Land, ensuring each tribe received its rightful inheritance under divine guidance (Bamidbar 34:2).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Pedah'el ben 'Ammihud mentioned in Numbers 34:28?
A: Pedah'el ben 'Ammihud was the appointed leader (nasi) of the tribe of Naftali during the division of the Land of Israel. The Torah lists the leaders of each tribe who assisted in the allocation of the land, showing the importance of organized leadership in Jewish tradition (Rashi on Numbers 34:18).

Q: Why does the Torah list the names of tribal leaders like Pedah'el?
A: The Torah lists these leaders to emphasize the dignity and responsibility given to each tribe in the division of the Land of Israel. Each leader represented their tribe with integrity, ensuring a fair and holy distribution (Rambam, Hilchot Terumot 1:2). This teaches the value of proper leadership in Jewish life.

Q: What is the significance of the tribe of Naftali in this verse?
A: Naftali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and this verse highlights their representation in the division of the land. Each tribe had a unique role, and Naftali's portion was in the fertile northern region (Targum Yonatan, Joshua 19:32-39). This teaches that every tribe—and by extension, every individual—has a distinct purpose in Jewish tradition.

Q: How does this verse apply to leadership today?
A: This verse teaches that leadership is a sacred responsibility. Just as Pedah'el represented his tribe faithfully, Jewish leaders today must act with fairness and dedication for their communities (Pirkei Avot 2:2). The Torah’s emphasis on tribal leaders reminds us that strong leadership is essential for a functioning society.