34-Torah-Week - Bamidbar - בְּמִדְבַּר
Portion Summary
In this thirty-fourth reading from the Torah and the first reading in the book of Numbers is called Bamidbar, meaning "In the wilderness." This title is derived from the opening verse, where it is written, "Then YHVH spoke to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai" (Numbers 1:1). The English name "Numbers" is taken from the Greek Septuagint version, referring to the census taken in this portion.
The book of Numbers chronicles Israel's journey through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. It recounts Israel's early setbacks and eventual triumphs, including their failure at the border of Canaan, leading to forty years of wandering. The book closes with the second generation's victory over Canaanite opposition, poised on the brink of entering their inheritance.
This first reading focuses on a census of the tribes of Israel and the Levitical families, conducted before Israel departs from Sinai.
TORAH:
Numbers 1:1-54 — Census of the tribes of Israel.
Numbers 2:1-34 — Arrangement of the Israelite camp.
Numbers 3:1-51 — Census of the Levites and their roles.
Numbers 4:1-20 — Duties of the Kohathite clan within the Tabernacle.
Exodus 12:37 — Departure of the Israelites from Egypt, mentioning the large number of people.TARGUM:
Numbers 1:51 — Instructions on the Tabernacle's care.
Numbers 2 — Structure and arrangement of the tribes.
Numbers 4 — Duties and responsibilities of the Levitical families.
NEVI'EM:
Hosea 2:1-22 — A prophecy calling Israel back from wilderness wandering to faithfulness and restoration with YHVH.
WRITINGS:
Ecclesiastes 1:9 — "There is nothing new under the sun," connecting to Israel's patterns in the wilderness.
1 Chronicles 13:6-14 — Story of the Ark, emphasizing reverence for sacred objects.
1 Chronicles 15:1-13 — David's reverence for YHVH's commands, highlighting preparation and proper handling of the Ark.
GOSPEL AND EPISTLES:
Matthew 4:1-17 — Y'shua's time in the wilderness, echoing Israel's own wilderness testing.
Revelation 7:1-9 — The sealing of the tribes, symbolizing a new and holy people set apart for YHVH.
Jude 1:14-15 — Enoch's prophecy of YHVH's judgment, calling people to righteousness.
APOCRYPHA:
Enoch 1:7-9 — Foretelling of judgment and righteousness for those who walk in YHVH's ways.
Jasher 56:1-14 — Reflections on the tribe of Levi and its appointed duties.Key Themes in Bamidbar
Order and Organization: This reading highlights the importance of structure in the community of Israel. The census and arrangement of the tribes emphasize an orderly approach to community and worship.
Sanctity of Service: The roles of the Levitical families showcase the dedication and holiness required in ministering to YHVH, emphasizing reverence and responsibility.
Preparation for Journey: The census and organization mark a new beginning, as the Israelites prepare to journey toward the Promised Land. This readiness reflects both physical and spiritual preparation.
Testing in the Wilderness: Much like Y'shua's time of testing in the wilderness, Israel's journey symbolizes a period of growth, faith, and reliance on YHVH.
Study Questions:
How does Bamidbar relate to the Haftarah and New Testament portions this week?
Which aspects of the readings stood out most to you, and why?
Can you identify reflections of Y'shua in this week's Torah portion?
What is the general theme of Bamidbar, and how does it apply to our lives today?
This portion encourages us to reflect on our own lives, considering the importance of order, service, and spiritual preparation in our journeys of faith.
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