During the week one needs to be removed from the holiest places in order to accomplish in the world; Shabbos causes all one’s weekday actions to be for the sake of Heaven.
מנגד usually means in close proximity; here means from a “close” distance. The Tribes needed to encamp at a distance (not close to the Mishkan), but still within 2000 amos, in order to be able to come to the Mishkan on Shabbos.
Everyone, no matter what their level, can draw close and actively serve HaShem, like the Leviim.
Service of the Leviim:
- Guard the Mishkan–obligated in order to assist the Cohanim (passive)
- Needs of the Mishkan – service of the song, setting up and taking down – representatives of all the Jews (proactive)
As the Cohanim make a separation between themselves and the rest of the Jews, so does a Jew need to make a separation between oneself and the non-Jews. The Cohanim safeguard their priesthood by preventing others from doing the tasks entrusted exclusively to the Cohanim.
Through joining Torah (niglah & Chassidus) with Kabolas Ol, Moshiach will come. Counting of the Leviim was not to determine their number, but for the Leviim to serve HaShem, which starts at 30-days old (in potential).
In the days prior to Shavuos, prepare to be a kingdom of “princes”, the rulers of worldly matters, to draw down the true Kingship throughout the world. Parsha always read prior to Shavuos – 2nd of Sivan begins the preparation period. Item that is counted can not be nullified. Connection through the special verses said on 2nd of Sivan by HaShem to Moshe.
Verses Said on 2nd of Sivan
Rashi’s UnderstandingThree Countings in Parshas BaMidbarLessons in Spiritual Serviceוהייתם לי סגולה Jews as a special treasure; separate from all other nationsJews counted (not including the Leviim)Beginning of service - being chosen by HaShemממלכת כהנים שרים officer, ruler, leader Guides the land, the surroundingsTribe of Levi counted from one month oldNext service - in the permissible matters done for the sake of Heaven in a way of בכל דרכיך דעהווגוי קדוש Nation of “priests” serving HaShemCounting among the Leviim fitting to carry the components of the MishkanFinal service - learning Torah and keeping mitzvos; separated from the mundane