Daily Chumash Behalosecha Wednesday: The order of traveling in the desert

Q&A from Rashi

Q: What is the significance of הַמִּשְׁכָּן לְאֹהֶל הָֽעֵדֻת?

A: This phrase highlights the Tabernacle’s purpose as a dwelling for the Tablets of the Testimony.

Q: What does הֵֽעָלוֹת הֶֽעָנָן (“the cloud moved away”) describe?

A: It signifies the movement of the cloud, indicating when the Israelites should prepare to travel, as translated by Onkelos.

Q: How did the Israelites know when to move or make camp?

A: They followed the cloud’s position. Its movement signaled travel, while its stationary presence indicated encampment. Moshe also played a role in initiating these actions through specific proclamations.

Q: What role did trumpets serve?

A: Trumpets were used for various ceremonial functions, including summoning the community, calling the princes, and signaling the departure of divisions.

Q: What is meant by עֲשֵׂה לְךָ (“Make yourself”) in relation to the trumpets?

A: This directive implies that Moshe was to personally oversee the creation of the trumpets, ensuring their exclusive use for divine purposes.

Q: What was the purpose of blowing the trumpets during sacrifices?

A: They were blown over communal offerings to signify divine remembrance and sovereignty, emphasizing the spiritual connection during celebrations and key moments.

Q: How were different groups summoned using the trumpets?

A: A teki’ah (long blast) on both trumpets summoned the community, while a teki’ah on one trumpet called the princes. For departure signals, a sequence of teki’ah, teru’ah (short blasts), and another teki’ah was used.

Q: Who was responsible for blowing the trumpets?

A: Only the descendants of Aaron, the priests, were tasked with blowing the trumpets during these occasions.

Q: What does “I am God, your God” add to the context of trumpet use?

A: It underscores the importance of acknowledging divine sovereignty during all moments of remembrance, including celebrations and sacrificial rituals.