Parsha discussion

Question:  14:3 What is the תועבה that is being referred to ? Given that the list of forbidden foods is stated explicitly further on Approach: we could explain that the reference is to all types of prohibited foods, even if the main ingredient is, in and of itself, ok. Such as נבלה, טריפה, ערלה etc. We are then told of specific animas which are off limits altogether.

Question:  Of all the miracles to happen in the desert, why is the episode of דתן ואבירם singled out to show the greatness of הקב״ה? Approach:  Perhaps we can suggest that this was the clearest and most open miracle that occurred as a one-off, rather than over a protracted period of time, which can only be appreciated in retrospect. Of interest if the lack of the name of קרח, but perhaps this is due to the fact that his children were not killed, as we learned in פרשת פנחס.

Question:  6:3 How does the phrase ארץ זבת חלב ודבש fit into the context? Approach: This phrase seems to relate back to 6:1, i.e. the land - to which you're entering and will want to lead a full and effective Torah life - is that which is flowing with milk and honey. Perhaps the split is in order to play down the importance of the physical aspects, and highlight the spiritual aspects.

Question:  2:37 Why the sudden switch to second person? Approach:  It can be inferred that some of the tribes (seemingly מנשה) were eager to get their hands on some land on the East Bank, and as such were eager to take land over and above that which was captured from סיחון. And משה is stressing that they listened to the rules not to attack עמון, but then went straight to fight with עוג.