“Count (literally, Raise) the heads of the congregation...” (1:2).
When Moses was commanded to arrange a census of the Jewish people, the word used was “Se-oo” more literally meaning “raise” count. This indicates that the counting was actually an elevation for the Jews. The census brought about the resting of the Divine presence on the Jewish nation because it indicated that each individual could affect the destiny of the entire people. Similarly, Maimonides writes: “Each person should consider the entire world as balanced between good and evil deeds. His one action could sway the world to the side of good, bringing salvation to the whole world. (Shaloh)
“Each person to his flag with signs for the house of their ancestors” (2:2).
Every individual must ask himself, “When will my deeds reach the level of those of my ancestors?” Our goal should be that our forefathers’ achievements will act as a “signpost” for our own actions. (Sefat Emet)
The L-rd bless you and guard you. The L-rd make His countenance shine upon you and be gracious to you. The L-rd turn his countenance toward you and grant you peace (Priestly blessing)
This special blessing was uttered by the priests in the Holy Temple and continues to be invoked by kohanim in synagogues today, but with one significant difference:
In the Holy Temple, the kohanim would actually pronounce G-d’s ineffable Name, indicative of the sublime level of holiness that was brought down by their blessing, whereas today we are forbidden to do so.
When Moshiach comes kohanim will return to their former practice, at which time the power of the blessing itself will be even greater than during the time of the Holy Temple. (Sichot Kodesh, Parshat Mishpatim, 5752)
Why do kohanim raise their hands when blessing the Jewish people?
Our Sages taught that while giving blessings is both proper and appropriate, it is extremely important that we also “raise our hands” and do something to actually help the person in need.
