שבט

According to the order of their banners [in the wilderness], this month relates to the Tribe of Asher, about whom it is written: “Asher’s bread will be rich, [And he will produce delicacies fit for royalty]” (Gen. 49:20); and also, “May he dip his foot in oil” (Deut. 33:24), because there was much olive oil in his portion [of the land], and every place where olive oil is found, there Wisdom is found. As it says, “And Joab sent to Tekoa [Tekoa produces fine olive oil] and brought a wise woman from there,” (II Samuel 14:2 with Menachot 85b). Because the constellation of this month is the Bucket (Aquarius) the constellation of Israel, the servant who serves with water, which is Torah, the essence of Wisdom: “Torah emerges from Wisdom” (Zohar 2:121a). “In the beginning” (Gen. 1:1) is translated [by the Jerusalem Targum] as “With Wisdom” meaning “With the Torah” (See Genesis Rabbah 1:1). Therefore this month is connected to the tribe of Asher, whose portion contains olive oil, which cultivates Wisdom.