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#*#*# (C) RashiYomi Inc. 2009, Dr. Hendel, President #*#*#
      10. RASHI METHOD: SYMBOLISM
      BRIEF EXPLANATION: Rashi provides symbolic interpretations of words, verses, and chapters. Rashi can symbolically interpret either
      • (10a) entire Biblical chapters such as the gifts of the princes, Nu-07
      • (10b) individual items, verses and words
      The rules governing symbolism and symbolic interpretation are presented in detail on my website.
      This examples applies to Rashis Nu24-09a
      URL Reference: (c) http://www.Rashiyomi.com/rule1223.htm
      Brief Summary: a) When waging war the Jews resemble the wild bull b) When resting the Jews resemble the lion.

    Verses Nu24-08:09 presenting the blessings of Bilam to the Jewish people state
    • God brought him out of Egypt; the strength of a wild bull is his; he eats up the nations that are his enemies, and breaks their bones, and pierce them through with his arrows.
    • He couched, he lay down as a lion, and as a great lion. Who shall stir him up? Blessed is he who blesses you, and cursed is he who curses you.
    Rashi comments on the animal symbolism: Note the contrast that military activity is compared to that of the wild bull, while tranquil nesting - couching, laying down - is compared to that of a lion. There is an emphasis that even during periods of rest, the nation commands the respect due a great military power.

Advanced Rashi: There is advanced symbolism here. The lion, in secular poetry is typically the symbol of military prowess. But the Torah asks, And what do you do when you have won? Jews are not interested in leading a military life. The ability to dwell in power without fear of worrying about the next war is an important blessing (and relevant to the current modern situation).


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