V'zot Habracha - Sheini

Levi and Benjamin

Moshe told the Tribe of Levi that the Urim and Tumim are under the stewardship of the Kohein Gadol, who is from their Tribe. They stood up for God by refusing to worship the golden calf. They are the spiritual leaders of the nation, responsible for teaching the people Torah. May God bless their work and destroy any enemies who might try to impede them.

Moshe called Benjamin beloved of God, dwelling safely in His protection. (The Talmud in Zevachim 54b relates the Tribe of Benjamin's blessing to the fact that the portion of the Temple containing the Holy of Holies fell in their portion.)

Author: Rabbi Jack Abramowitz