Community Torah Corner - May 15, 2026 — Bamidbar

This week's parshah is Bamidbar. There are many important topics in Bamidbar, but one idea that stood out to us was the order of the camps around the Mishkan. Order was important because every tribe had a specific role and place in the camp. Every tribe also had a cool detailed flag, representing their tribe. This helped the Israelites stay organized and work together as a community. The Levites camped around the Mishkan so they could act like guards to make sure no one accidentally went somewhere they weren’t supposed to. They weren’t just protecting a building, they were protecting the people by making sure everyone knew how special entering the Mishkan is. The Levites showed everyone that respecting limits is important, and that those limits actually protect the whole community.

The Israelites at this time were in great need of order. Remember, they had just escaped slavery in Egypt. Their whole life they were used to having order and a structure to their day–even if it was a cruel, oppressive structure–but now they are free in the desert without set rules and they have no routine. Having order in their lives could make them feel more stable and safe. Everyone played an important role, from where the people camped, to the jobs people had in helping the Mishkan function. In order for the Israelites to remain strong and be able to defend themselves they had to be organized and smart in their everyday living. 

This concept was expressed by the great Italian commentator, Rabbi Shmuel David Luzzatto, who writes: 

“Once the Mishkan was set up and the people were ready to journey and conquer the land, and God was at their head in His Mishkan among them, He wanted them to be divided according to corps and ranks, so that each man should know his place and that the camp should be in proper order, and so that they should appear not as slaves in flight but as a nation prepared for war. This is why they were to be counted as well: for the sake of order."

So we know you all are wondering how this relates to us nowadays. Well, we may not camp around the Mishkan anymore, but order is still important in our lives. At school, in sports, and in our families, everyone has responsibilities. From going to school everyday to having set meal times. Although having order can sometimes feel repetitive and boring, it actually helps us to feel more organized so we can plan more efficient days. Additionally, in sports or activities each person plays an important role. Bamidbar teaches us that order is not just about rules, it helps people feel connected, safe, and united. Just like the Israelites in the desert, we are strongest when everyone works together.