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Leviticus 14:1 - Divine laws for purification revealed.

Leviticus 14:1 - ויקרא 14:1

Hebrew Text

וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying,

Transliteration

Vayedaber Adonai el-Moshe lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Divine Communication to Moshe

The phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying") appears frequently throughout the Torah, introducing divine commandments and revelations. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) notes that this expression signifies a direct and clear communication from Hashem to Moshe, often for the purpose of transmitting mitzvot to Bnei Yisrael.

Significance of "Dibbur" (Speaking)

The term "וַיְדַבֵּר" ("and He spoke") implies a stronger and more forceful form of communication than softer terms like "וַיֹּאמֶר" ("and He said"). The Ramban (Bereishit 18:33) explains that "dibbur" is used when conveying weighty matters, particularly mitzvot that require strict adherence.

The Role of Moshe as Intermediary

This verse highlights Moshe Rabbeinu's unique role as the conduit for divine revelation. The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe was the only prophet who received communication from Hashem "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth"), with absolute clarity, unlike other prophets who received visions or allegories.

The Purpose of "לֵּאמֹר" ("Saying")

The inclusion of "לֵּאמֹר" indicates that Moshe was to relay these words to others. The Sforno (Shemot 25:1) explains that this teaches us Moshe's faithfulness in transmitting the divine word exactly as received, without adding or omitting anything.

  • Rashi: Emphasizes that this phrasing introduces commandments for all generations.
  • Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:33): Explains that Moshe's prophecy was unique in its directness and clarity.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Vaera 2): Notes that each divine communication to Moshe was preceded by his name to show affection.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean when the verse says 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying'?
A: This phrase is a common introduction in the Torah indicating that Hashem is giving a direct commandment to Moshe Rabbeinu to transmit to the Jewish people. Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes the precision with which Moshe conveyed Hashem's words to Bnei Yisrael.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'spoke'?
A: The double language of 'spoke... saying' teaches that Moshe was commanded to repeat these words to the Jewish people. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains this repetition shows Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of Hashem's commandments.
Q: How is this opening phrase significant in understanding the laws that follow?
A: This introduction establishes the divine origin of the laws that follow (in this case, the laws of tzara'at). The Rambam (Introduction to Mishneh Torah) explains that every mitzvah in the Torah derives its authority from this type of divine communication to Moshe at Sinai.
Q: Why does the Torah mention Moshe by name here?
A: The Midrash (Sifra) notes that mentioning Moshe by name emphasizes his unique role as the intermediary through whom Hashem gave the Torah. This pattern appears throughout Vayikra to show the special relationship between Hashem and Moshe.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem communicates with Moshe in this verse?
A: We learn about the respectful and clear way Hashem communicates with His prophets. The Talmud (Megillah 31b) derives from such verses that divine communication always comes in a way that the recipient can properly understand and transmit.