A classic example surfaces in Bamidbar Rabbah 19 as it grapples with a seemingly simple verse: "Israel sent messengers to Siḥon, king of the Emorites, saying…" (Numbers 21:21).
The rabbis in Bamidbar Rabbah use this verse as a springboard to explore the nuances of seeking good versus pursuing peace. They begin by quoting Psalms 37:3: “Trust in the Lord and perform good; dwell in the land and cultivate faith,” and Psalms 34:15: “Turn away from evil and perform good; seek peace and pursue it.” Notice the difference? We are told to simply "perform good," but when it comes to peace, we must actively "seek" it and "pursue" it.
So, what’s the deal? Why the difference in emphasis?
The text explains that the Torah doesn’t necessarily demand that we chase after every single mitzvah, every good deed. : “If a bird’s nest should happen before you” (Deuteronomy 22:6); “if you encounter your enemy’s ox” (Exodus 23:4); "if you see a donkey" (Exodus 23:5); “when you beat your olive tree” (Deuteronomy 24:20); “when you harvest your vineyard” (Deuteronomy 24:21); “when you enter another’s vineyard” (Deuteronomy 23:25). These are all opportunities that present themselves. If they arise, you’re commanded to act. But you're not obligated to go looking for them.
But peace? Peace is different. Peace, shalom, requires active engagement. "Seek peace" – in your immediate surroundings. "And pursue it" – even beyond your comfort zone.
And that’s precisely what Israel did in our opening verse. Even though God had instructed them to "Begin taking possession, and provoke war with him" regarding the land (Deuteronomy 2:24), they chose the path of peace. "Israel sent messengers to Siḥon… let me pass" (Numbers 21:21-22).
Now, here's a fascinating detail. The text notes that the verse as quoted in Bamidbar Rabbah includes the word "na," which means "please," in the message to Siḥon. That little word isn't actually in the original verse in Numbers. Interestingly, it does appear in Judges 11:17, in a similar message sent to the king of Edom. What does this slight alteration suggest? Perhaps it highlights the extra effort, the added layer of humility, that seeking peace requires.
This passage reminds us that while opportunities for good deeds often present themselves in our daily lives, the pursuit of peace demands intentionality, effort, and sometimes, even a little "na" – a little extra supplication. It’s a powerful reminder that peace isn’t passive; it's an active choice, a continuous pursuit. What does pursuing peace look like in your life today?