After thirty eight years in the wilderness, Klal Yisrael was once again at Har Seir. The nation was now instructed to turn to the north. The Kli Yakar interprets the word “tzafonah,” which usually means “north,” in its alternative definition, “hidden.” Accordingly, Hashem was telling Klal Yisrael, “Turn inward, hide yourselves.” He was implying that a Jew should maintain a low profile among his gentile neighbors. There is no reason to arouse their envy. This is similar to what Yaakov Avinu told his sons when he sent them to Egypt to purchase food, even though they had food at home. …
