Mount Gerizim and Mount Eval

Question

Parasha Ki Tavo
Mount Gerizim to bless the people: Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin.
Mount Ebal for the curse: Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naftali.
Was there any rhyme or reason as to which brothers were chosen to stand on which mount?

0

Answers

  1. The Just Ask! - AskTheRabbi.org Team

    I am not familiar with a reason why each Tribe was chosen to stand on each side. Our Sages explain that Gerizim and Eival were once one single mountain that split. Gerizim, where the blessings were given, was fertile and covered in grass and flowers. Eival, where the curses were given, was barren. Our Sages teach that the Jewish Nation was split in two groups, with one group standing on one mountain, and the other group on he second mountain. Everyone had to answer “Amen” as the Blessings and the Curses were enumerated. The Rabbis explain that the Tribes were split into two groups to teach that regardless of whether a person is “standing” on fertile ground or on barren ground, they are always able to connect to God and build up their relationship.

    Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team