Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean when the Torah says 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying'?
A: This phrase appears frequently in the Torah to introduce divine commandments or instructions given to Moshe (Moses). According to Rashi, it emphasizes that Moshe received these words directly from Hashem (God) to transmit to the Jewish people. This shows the authenticity and divine origin of the Torah's commandments.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4a) explains that the word 'saying' (לֵּאמֹר) indicates that Moshe was commanded to repeat these words to the Jewish people. It teaches that leaders must clearly transmit God's messages to the nation, not keeping them to themselves.
Q: How is this opening phrase important in understanding Torah commandments?
A: This introductory phrase establishes that what follows are divine commandments, not human ideas. The Rambam (Maimonides) explains in his introduction to Mishneh Torah that this formula shows the prophecy of Moshe was different from other prophets - he received commandments directly from God to be observed for all generations.
Q: What can we learn from how God communicated with Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) teaches that God always spoke to Moshe clearly and directly, showing special closeness. This teaches us the importance of clear communication, especially when transmitting Torah values and laws to others.
Q: Does this phrase appear differently elsewhere in the Torah?
A: Yes, sometimes it says 'And God spoke to Moshe saying' (Vayedaber) and other times 'And God said to Moshe saying' (Vayomer). The Talmud (Zevachim 115b) explains that 'Vayedaber' implies stronger language, often used for commandments, while 'Vayomer' is softer, used for narratives or comforting words.
The Divine Communication to Moshe
The phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying") appears frequently in the Torah as an introduction to divine commandments. Rashi (on Shemot 6:2) notes that this phrasing emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy which may be less direct or through visions.
The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)
The word "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) to indicate that Moshe was commanded to transmit the divine words exactly as he received them, without adding or omitting anything. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that this underscores the principle of Torah MiSinai—the divine origin and unchanging nature of the Torah's commandments.
Moshe's Unique Prophetic Role
The Talmud (Yevamos 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unique in that he received communication from Hashem "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth"), with absolute clarity. Unlike other prophets who received messages through dreams or allegories, Moshe's dialogue with Hashem was direct and unambiguous, as reflected in this verse.
Structural Implications in the Torah