Parshas Bamidbar

There is a passuk in Parshas Bamidbar that says, “Si’u Es Rosh Kol Adas B’nai Yisroel…” “Count the heads” of the congregation of the children of Israel. Harav Ephraim Nisenbaum explains that this commandment to count was directed toward the B’nai Yisroel (Children of Israel). Meaning, Hashem made it the responsibility of the B’nai Yisroel to be counted by Moshe and Arhon. Later, we find a similar command with a subtle change in the loshon (wording) when Hashem commands Moshe to count, “Nasuh Es Rosh” “Count the heads“, of the Levi’im Levites. Back by the passuk of “Si’u” the commandment was given to Klal Yisroel (the congregation of Israel).

Why did Hashem wanted the B’nai Yisroel counted? I believe we can understand it through a mushul or parable.

There was once a shepherd who dearly loved his sheep. He was constantly caring for each and every sheep, making sure that each one was healthy and strong and so on. One night there was a terrible storm that caused much damage in the area. As soon as the storm ended the Shepherd ran to his sheep and counted them making sure none were missing.

This is the same situation in this Parsha. Hashem was settling his Shechina (Divine Presence) with the B’nai Yisroel and He wanted to see how many survived so far.

Rashi points out some of the previous instances where Hashem had someone count or He Himself counted the B’nai Yisroel. Once when they left Mitzrayim (Egypt), when they fell by the golden calf and now here.

May we all merit to always be counted by HaKadosh Baruch Hu out of His tremendous love towards us! -Amen!

HAVE A GREAT SHABBOS AND WEEKEND!

Stay tuned for next week’s Parsha called, Parshas Nasso!