Question:
Rashi in Vayeira says ki has 4 meanings. When the word is used, should we try to interpret it using every meaning. For example see Bemidbar 14:30.
The normal translation here is “except”. However what would have happened if Yehoshua and Kaleiv had not tried to encourage the people to trust G-d. The people might have had the excuse that there was no one giving them anything positive. Therefore, I wonder if we can also translate ki as because. Similarly, if Noach had not been good, would Hashem still have destroyed everyone else?
Answer:
There are many ways of interpreting a verse, and you are entitled to interpret it in a logical way if it doesn’t negate the words of the Torah or Rabbis.
Sources:
Chinuch 95, Ramban Bereshis 8:4
