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How can Hashem (ה׳) present alternative explanations for Miriam and Aharon's motivations when criticizing Moshe, as if He doesn't know which applies? The shiur identifies a paradox in the Divine response that challenges how we understand God's omniscience. Even constructive intentions can constitute lashon hara when they involve speaking against someone whose unique status we fail to grasp.
This shiur analyzes complex passages from Parshas Beha'aloscha dealing with Miriam and Aharon's criticism of Moshe Rabbeinu. The lecture begins with a grammatical puzzle regarding Moshe's weakened state, examining the unusual feminine form 'at' used in reference to Hashem (ה׳). Rabbi Yeshaya Greenberg ZT"L discusses the Mizrachi's interpretation and the Maharal's sharp critique, noting the Maharal's memorable line that 'this explanation is weaker than a woman.' The main focus shifts to the episode where Miriam and Aharon spoke against Moshe regarding the Kushite woman he married. According to Rashi (רש"י), this refers to Moshe's separation from his wife Tzipporah due to his prophetic status. The shiur explores how Miriam discovered this through Tzipporah's comment about Eldad and Meidad, when she said 'woe to their wives' who would also have to separate. A key insight emerges: Tzipporah assumed all prophets separated from their spouses, while Miriam knew this wasn't true for other prophets, leading her to question why Moshe should be different. The lecture examines why this constituted lashon hara when Miriam's intention seemed constructive - to provide proper rebuke. The analysis concludes with a profound difficulty in Hashem's response to Miriam and Aharon. When Hashem says 'you should have feared to speak against my servant,' He presents two possible explanations for their error, as if He doesn't know which one applies. This creates a paradox: how can the all-knowing God present alternative explanations for their thoughts when He knows exactly what they were thinking? The shiur leaves this question unresolved, highlighting the deep complexities in the simple meaning of the biblical text.
Parshas Beha'aloscha - Miriam and Aaron's criticism of Moshe
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