Eikev 9:16 · EXTRA 1

English: “Moshe implored the Lord his God and he said: Lord, why is Your wrath enflamed against Your people that You took out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand?” (Exodus 32:11). “Moshe implored,” Rabbi Tanḥuma bar Abba began in this way: “He said He would destroy them, were it not for Moshe, His chosen, who stood in the breach before Him” (Psalms 106:23). Rabbi Ḥama bar Ḥanina said: The effective advocate is respectful in the trial. Moshe was one of two advocates who stood to plead in favor of Israel, and who, as it were, were insolent vis-à-vis the Holy One blessed be He – Moshe and Daniel. Moshe, from where is it derived? As it is stated: “Were it not for Moshe, His chosen…”1The verse continues, “who stood in the breach before Him,” implying that Moshe stood in the way of God carrying out His will (Maharzu). Daniel, from where is it derived? As it is stated: “I directed my attention [vaetna et panai]2Literally, “I directed my face,” which connotes insolence, as opposed to directing one’s heart, which is more circumspect. to the Lord God, to request…” (Daniel 9:3). These are the two men who were insolent vis-à-vis the attribute of justice, to ask for mercy upon Israel. Rabbi Berekhya said two matters, one in the name of Rabbeinu,3Literally, “our rabbi,” this is a reference to Rabbi Berekhya’s mentor, Rabbi Yehuda ben Rabbi Simon, who was a master in the realm