Numbers; Counting

Numbers are funny things

We seek specialness. Everything else just is, and as such, is unworthy of our energy or attention. But is that how we really are? Or is there another, perhaps deeper, self that thrives on routine and regularity?

“Who is Counting?” The Torah reading of Bamidbar begins with G-d telling Moshe that he and his brother Aharon, the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), were to tally the number of the Jewish people.Bamidbar 1:1-3. The verse goes on to stateIbid., verses 48, 49. ...

The mitzvah of counting the Omer is to count the days from Passover until Shavuos, when the Omer offering was brought in the Temple. Each day has a purpose. Whether it leads up to the Omer offering or it is an ordinary day of life, we must look at the ...

A census achieves two contrary aims. By focusing on the total sum, it asks the individual to suspend his individuality; at the same time, it compels him to ask himself if he is worthy of contributing to the total...

A census is a “head-count.” The greatest of the great and the smallest of the small all count as one person, no more, no less.

There are times when we must wage an external battle, and there are times when we must safeguard our internal treasures . . .

Why the "countdown" to the holiday of Shavuot? What is the connection between numbers and counting and the special gift which our nation received on this holiday?

To us on earth, looking with the unaided eye and perhaps not thinking too much about the matter, the stars seem tiny and insignificant. Yet each is a powerful and unique force.

How can inflexible digits chart the person-to-G-d relationship? And how can any method be standardized for all people?