It's a passage that sparks some interesting questions, and the ancient commentary, Sifrei Bamidbar, dives right in.
"And the L-rd spoke to Moses, saying: Take the revenge of the children of Israel…" The Sifrei Bamidbar sees this as a testament to the dedication of Israel's leaders. They wouldn't leave this world without ensuring justice was served, without avenging Israel. But it's more than just revenge for Israel. It’s framed as revenge for the Divine itself, "which is the revenge of Him who spoke and brought the world into being.” But here's where it gets a little tricky. The text continues, "…from the Midianites." Now, wait a minute. Were the Midianites really the masterminds behind the plot against Israel? Weren't the Moabites the instigators? After all, as we read in Bamidbar 22:4, "And Moab said to the elders of Midian…" And then again in verse 7, "And the elders of Moab went and the elders of Midian…" So why single out the Midianites for revenge?
The Sifrei Bamidbar offers a fascinating explanation, using a relatable analogy. Imagine two sheepdogs, always snapping and snarling at each other. They can't stand each other. But then, a wolf comes along, eyeing a lamb from their flock. Suddenly, one of the dogs realizes the danger. If he doesn't help the other dog, the wolf will devour the lamb and then come for him next! So, they set aside their differences, form an alliance, and together they fend off the wolf.
The Sifrei Bamidbar tells us that Moab and Midian were like those two sheepdogs. They were constantly at odds. There's even a reference to Bereshit (Genesis) 36:35, which speaks of someone "who smote Midian in the field of Moab." They were enemies! But when it came to making war against Israel, they found common ground. They made peace with each other for that singular, destructive purpose.
So, back to the question: why focus on the Midianites? The Sifrei Bamidbar explains that it was because they "counseled" against Israel. The Hebrew word used here is "midaynin," which connects the Midianites to the act of "inveighing" or speaking out against Israel. It wasn't just about physical warfare, but also about the insidious power of words and influence. The Midianites, even if they weren't the original instigators, played a key role in the plot against Israel, and that's why they were targeted for retribution.
It makes you think, doesn't it? About how even enemies can unite for a common, often destructive, goal. And how sometimes, the real battle isn't fought with swords, but with words. And ultimately, what it truly means to seek justice, and for whom are we truly seeking it.