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In Leviticus we read about Moses

The Rav Name: Rabbis of the Da’at Institute

In Leviticus we read about Moses (via God’s instruction) commanding the people of Israel with respect to various feasts/festivals and other procedures. I have always wondered where the people, after leaving Egypt got the required olive oil (for the lamp), grain (for normal eating as well as the commanded Holy Bread) among other things to keep God’s commands. I realize that they could have traded for these things but after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness what did they have left to trade?

Shalom and thank you for your question!

The Jews came out of Egypt with many possessions. Commentaries note that cedar saplings were brought with them to Egypt, and the mature trees were thereafter brought out of Egypt to be used for the construction of the Sanctuary in the desert. Similarly, according to some opinions, olive oil was brought out of Egypt for their needs in the Sanctuary. Some commentaries maintain that messengers were sent ahead to obtain the oil from Israel.

Because of the riches that were brought out of Egypt, they indeed must have had the means with which to trade. Also for a certain amount of time they ate Manna which fell from heaven, thus they had no need of grain for eating in that period.

Sources

DAAT CENTER - JUDAISM IN THE LIGHT OF KABALA AND CHASSIDUS

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Ask The Rabbi

Ask The Rabbi

In Leviticus we read about Moses

Sources

DAAT CENTER - JUDAISM IN THE LIGHT OF KABALA AND CHASSIDUS

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