Who are referred to as the 72 elders?
The term "72 elders" refers to the biblical elders of Israel, specifically the 70 elders that Moses gathered as instructed by God, as mentioned in Numbers: Chapter 11, Verses 24-25. Moses was to gather these elders to assist him in leading the people of Israel. The 70 elders, along with Moses, formed a court known as the Sanhedrin, which was a system of governance and decision-making for the Israelites. This assembly was crucial for maintaining order and justice among the people. The number 72 is significant in various traditions, including Kabbalistic and mystical interpretations, where it is associated with divine names and spiritual entities.