10th Grade Tanach: Bamidbar Final Study Guide

What sections will the final exam cover?

The final will cover all of Sefer Bamidbar, but NOT Sefer Yonah or Megilat Esther.

How many units are included in the study guide for Sefer Bamidbar?

There are nine units.

List three units covered in the final exam for Sefer Bamidbar.

Hakdamot, Census (פרק א), Moshe's leadership in crisis.

What are the five sections of the exam?

Skills and Translations, Pshat Questions, Mefarshim + Analysis, Essay, An Unseen Section.

What should students review to prepare for the exam?

Translations from class, the pshat of the פרקים covered, the mefarshim studied, themes, essential questions, and big ideas.

What does the term 'Hakdamot' refer to in the context of Sefer Bamidbar?

It refers to introductory concepts or themes in the text.

Which mefarshim are associated with the unit 'Hakdamot'?

Ramban, Netziv, Seforno.

What are the themes associated with the unit 'Census - פרק א'?

Plan A and Plan B, Strength of Relationships, Supernatural/Natural Independence, Preparation for entry into EY.

What is the significance of the 'Census' at the beginning of Sefer Bamidbar?

It serves to know the army capabilities in preparation for entering the land.

What does 'נונים הפוכים' refer to in the study guide?

Backwards nun's, a concept discussed in the context of Sefer Bamidbar.

What does the unit 'Moshe's leadership in crisis' explore?

Challenges to Moshe's leadership and his defense.

What is the theme of the unit 'אשה הכשית - Miriam and Aharon's Lashon HaRa'?

The impact of gossip and slander on leadership.

What key events are associated with the unit 'מרגלים'?

The spies sent to scout the land of Israel and the consequences of their report.

What does the unit 'קרח' address?

The rebellion of Korach and its implications for leadership and hierarchy.

What is the focus of the unit 'מי מריבה'?

The incident of the waters of strife and its lessons regarding leadership.

What is the purpose of the book of Bamidbar according to the notes?

To transition from a supernatural existence to a natural one, highlighting the miracles and preparations for entering Israel.

What does Ramban say about the mitzvot in Bamidbar?

He discusses the importance of the mishkan, the Aaron, and the mitzvot of tzitzit and nazir.

What is the alternative plan mentioned by the Netziv regarding entry into Israel?

Plan A: Miraculous entry without weapons; Plan B: Entry with weapons but without Hashem's direct help.

What does the term 'Meraglim' signify in the context of the notes?

The spies' attempt to move towards a natural existence without relying on Hashem.

What is a possible essay question related to the units studied?

Which one do you resonate more with and why? (between Sforno and Netziv) Provide evidence from the text.

What does the phrase 'veheyi binsoa Aharon' refer to?

It refers to the psukim that describe Hashem fighting wars for the Israelites, indicating an alternate ending.

What are the implications of the sin of the Meraglim according to the notes?

It ruined Plan A, leading to the 40 years in the desert.

What does Rashi say about Hashem counting the people?

Rashi explains that Hashem counts the people because He loves them, expressing love rather than military intent.

What pivotal moment for B"Y is highlighted before the Mishkan is used?

The counting of the people, which signifies becoming a nation and repairing relationships.

What are the two functions of Moshe's trumpets?

1. To gather the people with one blast. 2. To tell the people which direction to march.

What does Moshe's leadership symbolize through the use of trumpets?

It symbolizes Moshe's ability to control over 1.8 million people and the faith people had in him.

What does the Ark of the Covenant (ארון ברית ה') do?

1. Travels three days ahead to scout a resting place. 2. Scatters the enemies when it travels.

What does the cloud (ענן ה') represent in the desert?

It guides the people and signals when to travel and when to stop, following Hashem's command.

What is the significance of the backwards Nuns (נונים הפוכים)?

They bracket the verses of Vayehi Binsoa Aharon, indicating a separation between calamities.

What is the first calamity (פורענות) mentioned by Ramban?

The first calamity is the verse 'veyisu mehar Hashem,' indicating they are not just leaving the mountain but leaving God altogether.

How does Ramban compare the people's departure from God?

He compares it to a child fleeing from school happily, indicating immaturity in their relationship with God.

What does Rabbi Falk suggest about the verses between the backwards Nuns?

He suggests they show a hypothetical alternate ending where Aharon fights the battles for B"Y.

What does the term מתאוננים refer to?

It refers to the people complaining and getting punished.

What are the human responses of the people as they journey deeper into the desert?

They express fear of the desert and uncertainty about food, reflecting childish yet human reactions.

What root word does Ramban use to explain the complaints of the people?

He uses the root of the word 'Onen' to explain their complaints.

What does the counting of the people signify for B"Y?

It signifies the establishment of order and dependence on Hashem.

What happens to the order established before the backwards Nuns?

The order breaks down, leading to chaos, such as the mob turning against Moshe.

What does the cloud signify in the context of the Israelites' journey?

It signifies divine guidance and the presence of Hashem during their travels.

What is the purpose of the Ark traveling ahead of the people?

To scout out a resting place and to scatter enemies.

What does Moshe's ability to gather and direct the people symbolize?

It symbolizes his leadership and the trust the people had in him.

What does the phrase 'by the mouth of Hashem' indicate about the Israelites' journey?

It indicates that their movements were directed by divine command.

What does the counting of the people reveal about their relationship with Hashem?

It reveals a deepening relationship as they transition into nationhood.

How does the counting relate to the theme of parental struggles?

It reflects the nurturing aspect of Hashem's relationship with B"Y, akin to parental guidance.

What does the term 'calamities' refer to in the context of the backwards Nuns?

It refers to the challenges and complaints faced by the Israelites during their journey.

What does the phrase 'they are in the wrong place' imply about the verses bracketed by the backwards Nuns?

It implies that the verses are out of context and need separation to highlight their significance.

What is the interpretation of מתאוננים in the context of Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

They are not complaining but mourning their deaths beforehand due to fear of wars, stemming from a lack of emunah.

What does Rashi suggest about the nature of Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

Complaining serves as an excuse to damage their relationship with Hashem over trivial matters, similar to childish behavior.

What does the term Asafsuf refer to in the context of Bnei Yisrael?

Asafsuf means riffraff, referring to the group among Bnei Yisrael that initiated complaints.

What complaint do Bnei Yisrael make about their time in Mitzraim?

They reminisce about the free fish they ate in Mitzraim.

How does Rashi respond to the claim that the fish was 'free'?

Rashi explains that the fish was free from mitzvot and religious obligations, not that they were literally free.

What is Nechama Leibowitz's explanation regarding Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

She suggests that they miss the stability and order of their lives as non-Jewish slaves, despite the moral restrictions that come with being free.

What is the broader significance of the complaints made by Bnei Yisrael?

It indicates a loss of faith in Hashem, leading to a downward spiral for Bnei Yisrael.

What are Moshe's five claims in response to the people's complaints?

1. Why did you do this evil to your servant? 2. Did I birth this people? 3. Where do I have meat? 4. I cannot do this alone. 5. Kill me now.

Are Moshe's claims to the complaints reasonable?

1. Yes. 2. No. 3. No, because they could receive meat from God. 4. Yes, as H' addresses this. 5. Not valid.

What is Rav Mosheh Lichtenstein's explanation for Moshe's reaction to the complaints?

He notes that unlike previous valid complaints, this one is unreasonable since they have mana and basic necessities.

What does the breakdown of Moshe's leadership signify in the context of Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

It indicates a crisis of leadership and a weakening relationship between Moshe and Bnei Yisrael.

What accusation do Miriam and Aaron make against Moshe?

They accuse him of being with a Kushite woman.

How does the Torah defend Moshe in response to Miriam and Aaron's accusations?

The Torah states that Moshe's prophecy is on a higher level and that he is humbler than any man.

What is the significance of the story of Isha Kushit in relation to Moshe's leadership?

It highlights the challenges and struggles Moshe faces in maintaining his leadership.

What does the term 'emunah' refer to in the context of Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

Emunah refers to faith or belief, which Bnei Yisrael lacked, contributing to their fear and complaints.

What does the phrase 'Zacharnu et hadaga asher nachal bemitzraim chinam' translate to?

It translates to 'We remember the fish that we ate in Mitzraim for free.'

What does the term 'riffraff' imply about the Asafsuf?

It suggests that they are seen as the lower or less respectable members of Bnei Yisrael.

What does the term 'BIG PICTURE' refer to in the notes?

It refers to the broader significance and implications of the events discussed, particularly regarding leadership and faith.

What does Moshe mean when he says, 'I cannot do this alone'?

He expresses the burden of leadership and the need for support from God and the people.

What is the psychological aspect of Bnei Yisrael's complaints according to Nechama Leibowitz?

They reflect an internal struggle and a longing for the simplicity and stability of their previous lives.

What does the phrase 'they are just unhappy' imply about Bnei Yisrael's complaints?

It suggests that their grievances may stem from a general dissatisfaction rather than legitimate needs.

What is the significance of the timing of Bnei Yisrael's complaints in the narrative?

It marks a turning point in their relationship with Hashem and foreshadows future challenges.

What does Moshe's plea 'Kill me now' indicate about his state of mind?

It reflects his despair and frustration with the people's constant complaints.

What does the term 'Meraglim' refer to in the context of the notes?

Meraglim refers to the spies sent to scout the land of Canaan.

What are the two versions of the mission of the Meraglim as described in the notes?

The version in Bamidbar indicates Hashem initiates the mission, while the version in Devarim suggests it was the people's idea.

What is the significance of the question 'Was it God or was it the people's idea?'

If it was God's idea, the people cannot be blamed for their actions, and the sin would not apply.

What were the Meraglim sent to find during their mission?

They were sent to scout the land for Amalek, assess the quality of the land, and determine the strength of the nations.

What negative aspects did the Meraglim report upon their return?

They reported that while the land was good, they felt like grasshoppers compared to the inhabitants, which triggered a negative reaction.

What was the moment of sin in the Meraglim's report?

The sin occurred when they stated that the land was good but then shifted the tone to emphasize the strength of the other nations.

According to Rashi, what is the sin committed by the people regarding the Meraglim?

The sin is the people asking for spies, suggesting they do not believe in Moshe and Hashem's reports.

What does the term 'lecha' signify in the context of the Meraglim's mission?

It signifies that the people made the choice for themselves, indicating a lack of faith in divine guidance.

How does Ramban interpret the responsibility for the sin of the Meraglim?

Ramban suggests that if the mission was commanded by Hashem, it would not be the people's fault but Moshe's for allowing them to go.

What was Moshe's frustration regarding the Meraglim's mission?

Moshe was frustrated that the people were not excited to go and hoped they would see the land's greatness firsthand.

What does Netziv suggest about the Meraglim's failure?

Netziv suggests that the failure of the spies represents a failure to transition from natural to supernatural, indicating a lack of spiritual readiness.

What does the term 'hakdama' refer to in the context of the Meraglim?

Hakdama refers to the introduction or preface that sets the stage for understanding the significance of the Meraglim's actions.

What is the overarching theme of leadership struggles in the narratives discussed?

The narratives illustrate ongoing challenges and failures in leadership, particularly in the context of faith and reliance on divine guidance.

What is the role of agriculture in the Meraglim's mission?

The Meraglim were tasked with assessing the agricultural quality of the land, including its fertility and the presence of trees.

What military aspects were the Meraglim instructed to evaluate?

They were to determine the strength of the nations and whether their cities were fortified.

What does the term 'Emunah' refer to in the context of the Meraglim's failure?

Emunah refers to faith or belief, which the spies lacked, leading to their failure.

How does the narrative of Korach relate to past leadership struggles?

The narrative of Korach builds on previous leadership challenges by showcasing further dissent and questioning of authority.

What does the term 'Mei Meriva' refer to in the notes?

Mei Meriva refers to a narrative involving complaints and responses related to leadership struggles.

What is the significance of the people's complaints in the context of leadership?

The complaints highlight the ongoing dissatisfaction and challenges faced by leaders like Moshe and Aharon.

What does the term 'BIG PICTURE' signify in the notes?

BIG PICTURE refers to the broader implications of the narratives and how they connect to the overall themes of leadership.

What does the phrase 'natural and supernatural' imply in the context of the Meraglim?

It implies a distinction between relying on natural means versus trusting in divine intervention.

What does the term 'spiritual maturity' refer to in the context of the Meraglim?

Spiritual maturity refers to the readiness to embrace faith and trust in God's plan, which the Meraglim failed to demonstrate.

What is the main accusation against Moshe and Aharon in the Korach narrative?

The main accusation involves questioning their leadership and authority.