B’haalot’cha – בְּהַעֲלֹתְךָ (Numbers 8:1−12:16)

Parsha B’haalot’cha – בְּהַעֲלֹתְךָ Torah Summary:

God speaks to Moses, describing the menorah for the Tent of Meeting. The Levites are appointed to serve as assistants under Aaron and his sons. (8:1-26) Those who are unable to celebrate Passover during Nisan are given a time in the month of Sivan to observe a “second Passover.” (9:1-14) A cloud by day and fire by night show God’s Presence over the Tabernacle. When the cloud lifts from the Tabernacle, the people leave Sinai, setting out on their journey, tribe by tribe. (9:15-10:36) The Israelites complain about the lack of meat, and Moses becomes frustrated. God tells him to appoint a council of elders. God provides the people with meat and then strikes them with a very severe plague. (11:1-34) Miriam and Aaron talk about the “Cushite woman” whom Moses has married. In addition, they complain that God speaks not only through Moses but also through them. Miriam is struck with leprosy, and Moses begs God to heal her. After her recovery, the people resume their journey. (12:1-16) “May all יהוה’s people were prophets, that יהוה put [the divine] spirit upon them!” (Numbers 11:29) Moses is not afraid of competition, of others having a connection to God, and of being able to be prophets like him. In the country, he wants competition, he wants pluralism, and he strives for diversity. B’haalot’cha – בְּהַעֲלֹתְךָ