A CONVERSATION ABOUT MOSES

There is a puzzling narrative that dominates Chapter 12 of Bamidbar (Numbers). Miriam and Aaron engage in a discussion about their younger brother, Moses, igniting God’s anger, and incurring a punishment for Miriam, although not for Aaron.

What exactly did they say that caused God to become so angry? Why is the report of their conversation in the Torah so cryptic and inpenetrable?

This narrative has puzzled rabbinic commentators for millennia.

Rabbi Dunner addresses some of the most enigmatic aspects of the story, presenting some of the classic interpretations, as well as interpretations that are slightly off the beaten track.