At the conclusion of the Torah portion, the members of the tribes of Reuben and Gad request to remain east of the Jordan, claiming that the place is compatible with their economic needs. Initially, Moses harshly criticizes them, especially because their words evoke the events of the sin of the spies. The Sages find in Moses’ words an allusion to an additional critique of their priorities.

The members of Reuben and Gad made the primary secondary and the secondary primary. How so? They valued their property more than their bodies, as they said to Moses: “We will build sheep enclosures for our livestock here” (Numbers 32:16) first, and only then: “And cities for our children” (32:16). Moses said to them: Do not do that. Do the primary task first: “Build cities for your children” (32:24); and only then: “And enclosures for your flocks” (32:24). The Holy One, Blessed be He, said to those tribes: You valued your property more than your lives. I take an oath by your lives, your property will not be blessed. (Tanĥuma, Matot)