Page 48 - BAMIDBAR
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bamidbar
The Midrash relates that Moshe was afraid that encamping according to # 26347-EYAL-6
the flags would raise dissention among the nation, for those residing closer
to the Mishkan would feel superior to the others. Hashem mollified him
by stating that Bnei Yisrael would encamp around the Mishkan in the
same order that the Shevatim had carried the bier of Yaakov.
Why did Hashem instruct each tribe to have its own flag? So that they
should improve their middot. Those camping nearer to the Mishkan were
meant to realize it was not in their own merit, but merely by Hashem’s
command. Those who stood at the back were to be considered greater, for
their sole desire was to come closer to the Shechinah. The word (flag)
is contained in the word (greatness).
