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Matot-Massee

Numbers 30:2-36:13

Jeremiah 2:4-28, 3:4

Philip. 3:12-16

James 4:1-12

Here we are in the last Torah portion of the book of Numbers. It consists of two portions; Matot-Massei.

In this Parasha we are told about annulment of vows, war against the Midianites for their plot to bring moral judgment against Israel. Then we are told of how the booty (gold, silver, etc.) is to be distributed among the people.

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half tribe of Manasseh decide that they want to stay on the east side of the River Jordan because of the good pasture land. Moses is not happy about their decision, but agrees after assured by those who wanted to stay on the east of the Jordan River that their soldiers would assist side by side with the other tribes to get their inheritance.

We end with recalling of the travels in the desert, beginning with the Exodus, to the camps in Moab.  Cities of refuge are set up for people who inadvertently kill others.

The daughters of Tzelafchad may keep their father’s inheritance, only if they marry within their tribe.  As we read in this portion, the heads of the tribe of Manasseh were concerned that they would lose a part of their tribal land to another tribe if the daughters of Tzelafchad marry someone from another tribe.

Often we make decisions based on our feelings and emotions when we need to just obey G-d. It is good to think about decisions that can affect not only us but our families and friends, and neighbors. We do ask also what will happen if…….?

What we need is to know that G-d assigned the tribes their land.  Just as he assigned their land, we must accept what G-d assigns to us and not complain.  We need to be content with what G-d gives us.

Philippians 4:11-13 states, “For I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am in. I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot... I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

Let us be content and rejoice greatly in the things that G-d has for us.

SHAVUA TOV

Rabbi Z.

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