Understanding the Parsha according to the Rebbe
QUESTION:
If at the time the Spies they were all leaders and proper Jews, why did Moshe pray on behalf of Yehoshua to not follow their ways? And if they were all subject to going astray, why didn’t Moshe pray on behalf of all of them?
ANSWER:
Initially, the group of Spies were “kosher” Jews, but their method of service was of separation from the world and engaging in spiritual pursuits. However, Yehoshua was different. As a future leader he was involved with the needs of the people, and Moshe prayed for him not to follow the path of the other Spies to separate from the world (which led them to their future error). (ספר השיחות ה'תש"נ כרך ב, עמ' 320 )
QUESTION:
What was the lesson of the three examples (split the Sea, brought the Quail, feed the Mahn) used by Calev to counter the message of the other Spies?
ANSWER:
The Spies cited three items that indicated insurmountable obstacles to serving G-d in this material world. Calev countered, citing the actions of Moshe, taught that Jews, as the G-d’s representatives in this material world, could overcome these obstacles. (לקוטי שיחות כרך ח, עמ' 82 )
“They are too strong in the Land”Split the Sea and drown them even without a battleThe place is too tough and coarse (for holiness)Fear of Amalek (doubt)Produced the Quail even when the Jews lacked faithOne is not worthy of such holy work (doubt of abilities)They would be attacked before reaching the LandBrought down the Mahn even prior to reaching the LandSide issues exists that seem to negate one’s involvement