Naso (Take) B’midbar/Numbers 4:21-7:89
Naso(Take)B’midbar/Numbers 4:21-7:89
Haftorah Reading: Judges 13:2-25
This afternoon we study a very important Torah portion. At first glance Naso seems to be a portion of disconnected subjects. We read the account of the Levitical families of Gershon and Merari and their tasks to carry part of the Mishkan when the Israelites journeyed from place to place. We read of the sota or the wife whose husband became jealous and accused her of being unfaithful. We also read of the laws of the Nazarite. Next is the priestly blessing. This prayer has been used by faiths other than Judaism. It is the oldest prayer in the world still being used today. This prayer is followed by a listing of the gifts brought by the princes of each tribe at the dedication of the Mishkan.
Pinchas B’Midbar (Num) 25-30
Torah Portion: Pinchas B’Midbar (Numbers) 25:10-30:1
HafTorah: I Kings 18:46-19:21
Tonight we read the portion Pinchas, which brings light to the ending of last week’s Torah portion. This section of scripture ranges from the blessing given to Pinchas, to the census of the people, to the request of the daughters who’s father had died with no male heirs, to Moshe praying for the new leader of Israel and ending with the description of the holidays and offerings. Is there anything that ties this all together for us? Maybe it begins and ends with the priesthood and covenant of Shalom given to Pinchas.