The ancient Israelites certainly did. Imagine the scene: they're fresh out of Egypt, they've messed up big time with the Golden Calf, and morale is, shall we say, a little low.

So, what does MOSES do? He receives a divine pep talk, essentially. God tells him to announce the laws of sacrifice – the rules, regulations, and rituals for when they finally reach the Promised Land. It's like God saying, "Hey, I'm not giving up on you. There's still a future, still a plan." This comes from Ginzberg's Legends of the Jews, a masterwork collecting and weaving together countless threads of Jewish tradition.

But even in this moment of hope, human nature kicks in. As Moses announces these laws, a dispute erupts. Who gets to offer sacrifices? Who gets to participate fully in the Temple service? The native-born Israelites declare that they alone are entitled to bring offerings to God in His sanctuary, excluding the gerim – the proselytes, or converts to Judaism.

Can you feel the tension? The "us" versus "them" mentality that can creep into any community?

God, witnessing this squabble, turns to Moses and asks, "Why do these always quarrel with one another?" Moses, ever the diplomat (or maybe just a little exasperated), simply replies, "Thou knowest why."

God's response is sharp, clear, and profoundly important. He reminds Moses – and all of Israel – of a fundamental principle: "Have I not said to thee, 'One law and one ordinance shall be for you and for the stranger that sojourneth with you?'" We find this concept echoed in Numbers 15:15.

It's a powerful statement about inclusivity. It’s about the idea that everyone who commits to the covenant, regardless of their background, is entitled to the same rights and responsibilities. This isn't just a legal point; it's a moral one.

Think about it. After experiencing enslavement and then liberation, shouldn't the Israelites be the first to understand the importance of welcoming the stranger? Shouldn't they remember what it felt like to be the outsider?

This small passage, tucked away in the larger narrative, offers a powerful lesson. It’s a reminder that even in moments of great spiritual significance, human divisions can arise. And it’s a call to remember the importance of inclusivity, equality, and treating everyone with the same measure of dignity and respect. After all, aren't we all just sojourners on this earth, trying to find our way home?