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Why does the Torah (תורה) call the messengers to Edom "malachim" rather than "anashim"? Unlike shluchim who have decision-making authority, malachim function as pure agents with no personal input. This maintained diplomatic respect while ensuring they couldn't negotiate beyond Moshe's exact instructions.
Rabbi Zweig analyzes Parshas Chukas, focusing on why the Torah (תורה) uses the term "malachim" when describing Moshe's messengers to the King of Edom, rather than the more common "anashim" or "meraglim." He explains that while a shliach (agent) has some discretionary authority and can make decisions within their mandate, a malach functions purely as an extension of the sender with no personal authority whatsoever. The choice of "malachim" served a dual purpose: it provided appropriate honor (kavod) to the King of Edom by sending distinguished representatives, while ensuring they had no authority to negotiate or modify Moshe's message. This was crucial given the previous negative experience with the meraglim (spies), who exercised their judgment inappropriately.
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Parshas Chukas 20:14
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