The Torah does not contain a single redundant letter. We can derive a lesson even from the different spellings of a given word. Why then is so much space devoted to the korbanos brought by the twelve Nesiim? Would it not have conceivably been appropriate to describe the korban of Nachshon ben Aminadav — who was the first Nasi to bring a sacrifice — then say that each of the other Nesiim followed suit? The commentators address this question and respond with various lessons to be derived from the repetition. The Midrash explains that although the twelve offerings were identical, they each represented the unique mission of the individual tribe. Consequently, each one had its own spiritual character that distinguished it from the others.
The Ramban comments that all of the Nesiim had originally chosen to bring their korbanos on the same day. Hashem commanded that they each have their own day, so that each one would be accorded equal honor. The Chofetz Chaim observes that the Nesiim were truly remarkable leaders, baalei middos of the highest order. At no point did any single Nasi attempt to better his friend! Harmony and devotion to a common cause characterized the Nesiim. Thus, it is no wonder that Hashem valued the korban of each Nasi as if it represented the korbanos of all his colleagues.
We suggest another lesson to be derived from here. Twelve people can simultaneously reach a similar goal. Twelve people can project the image of having achieved the same level of success. The trials and tribulations which each individual person had to endure to attain this goal distinguish him from his friend. Two people might give the exact same donation. The donation of each, however, reflects the unique path that brought him there. It is essential that we take into consideration not only the goal achieved, but also the road one has travelled to reach that goal. The twelve Nesiim brought similar korbanos. Each one, however, reached the point of becoming a Nasi and bringing his korban through a different approach. The Torah recognizes each one’s personal experience.
