The Many Meanings of Pakad in the Census of the Firstborn

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Bamidbar 26:1

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

[Another interpretation] (of Numbers 3:40) ENROLL (root: P-Q-D) EVERY FIRSTBORN MALE. There is a use of the root P-Q-D for the firstborn, as it is said (Numbers 3:40): "Enroll (root: P-Q-D) every firstborn male." There is a use of the root P-Q-D for children, as it is said (1 Samuel 2:21): "For the LORD remembered (root: P-Q-D) Hannah, and she conceived and bore three sons." There is a use of the root P-Q-D for guarding, as it is said (Job 10:12): "And Your providence (root: P-Q-D) has guarded my spirit." There is a use of the root P-Q-D for peace, as it is said (Isaiah 60:17): "And I will make your overseer (root: P-Q-D) peace."

Themes

Divine ProvidenceBirthWomenHeavenAdam Eve

Biblical References

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