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      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 Nu22-04c
      URL Reference: (c) http://www.Rashiyomi.com/w33n2.htm
      Brief Summary: Although the Jews are not viscious, nevertheless, to get to Israel they must consume alot, similarly to a tamed OX consuming much pasture to do a days work.

Already, in rule #8, Databases we have showed that the Bible threatens destruction by using animal symbolism. Perhaps the most famous example of animal symbolism is Gn49 which contains the animal symbolism of the twelve tribes.

Verse Nu22-04c discussing Moab's fear of invasion by the Jews states And Moab said unto the elders of Midian: 'Now will this multitude lick up all that is round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field.' --And Balak the son of Zippor was king of Moab at that time.--

We have explained in rule #8, databases the symbolism of using the ox, a domestic animal, to symbolize violence, which is usually symbolized by wild animals. The Jews aren't a military people. Their goals are not conquest. But they are like an ox plowing a field. The ox is not trying to destroy anything but must consume much pasture to do a days work. So too the Jews are not trying to destroy anything. But to achieve their goal of transporting several million people to Israel they must consume many nations in their path. I am worried I will be consumed also.

Sermonic Points: We have explained above that this interpretation implies that Balak was not an antisemite. He used politically correct language to describe his fears - The Jews aren't mean, they just have strong needs because of their journey to Israel and therefore will destroy many nations in their path. Such an interpretation has relevance to understanding milder forms of Jewish antisemitism.


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