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      5. RASHI METHOD: CONTRADICTION
      BRIEF EXPLANATION:Rashi resolves contradictory verses using 3 methods.
      • (5a) Resolution using two aspects of the same event
      • (5b) Resolution using two stages of the same process
      • (5c) Resolution using broad-literal interpretation.
      This example applies to Rashis Nu35-02a Nu35-04a
      URL Reference: (c) http://www.Rashiyomi.com/nu35-04a.htm
      Brief Summary: Inner 1000 cubits of city outskirts: FOR LIVESTOCK. Outer 1000 cubits: FOR LIVESTOCK, GARDENS.

The table below presents presents two contradictory verses. Both verses speak about the dimensions of the outskirts of the Levite cities. The underlined words highlight the contradiction. One verse says that the outskirts are 1000 feet while the other verse says the city outskirts are 2000 feet. Which is it? Are the city outskirts 1000 or 2000 feet?

Summary Verse / Source Text of verse / Source
City outskirts were 1000 cubits. Nu35-04 And the open land about the cities, which ye shall give unto the Levites, shall be from the wall of the city and outward a thousand cubits round about.
City Outskirts were 2000 square cubits Nu35-05 ######
Resolution: 2 Aspects
  • The inner 1000 square cubits of the city outskirts were for livestock
  • The outer 1000 square cubits (from point 1000 to 2000) was for vineyards and gardens.

      Rashi resolves this contradiction using the 2 aspects method.
    • The inner 1000 square cubits of outskirts were for livestock
    • The outer 1000 square cubits (from point 1000 to 2000) was for vineyards and gardens

By using the table structure with underlines we are able to participate and empathize with Rashi in construction of the Rashi comment.


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