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 new commandment or instruction to Moshe Rabbeinu. According to Rashi, this wording emphasizes that Moshe transmitted Hashem's words exactly as they were given, without adding or omitting anything.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat this phrase so often?
A: The repetition of 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe' throughout the Torah serves multiple purposes. The Rambam explains that each new statement shows a separate communication from Hashem, teaching us that every mitzvah is important in its own right. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) also notes that this phrasing indicates pauses between subjects, giving Moshe time to understand each teaching properly.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem communicated with Moshe?
A: We learn several important lessons: 1) Divine communication was clear and direct (as explained by the Sforno). 2) Leadership requires constant connection with the Divine, as Moshe was always ready to receive Hashem's word (Midrash Tanchuma). 3) The use of Moshe as an intermediary teaches us the importance of proper Torah transmission through reliable channels (as discussed in Pirkei Avot 1:1).
Q: Why is this specific instance of Hashem speaking to Moshe important?
A: In Leviticus 23:26, this introduction leads to the commandments about Yom Kippur. The Ohr HaChaim explains that the special phrasing here emphasizes the supreme holiness of Yom Kippur. The repetition of 'saying' (לאמר) suggests these words were meant to be transmitted to all future generations with special care.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us that: 1) All Torah commandments originate from Divine communication (Rambam's Principle of Faith #8). 2) We must approach Torah study with the same reverence as Moshe did when receiving it (Talmud Berachos 22a). 3) Just as Moshe transmitted Hashem's words accurately, we must be careful to learn and teach Torah properly (based on Deuteronomy 4:2 and the Vilna Gaon's explanations).
The Divine Communication to Moshe
The phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying") appears frequently in the Torah, introducing direct communication from Hashem to Moshe Rabbeinu. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) explains that this expression signifies a clear and direct prophetic revelation, distinct from other forms of divine communication like dreams or visions. The term "וַיְדַבֵּר" (spoke) implies a strong and authoritative transmission of divine will.
The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"
The word "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is often interpreted by commentators as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. The Ramban (Bereishit 1:3) notes that this term emphasizes the role of Moshe as the intermediary, conveying Hashem's words faithfully to the people. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) adds that Moshe's unique prophetic clarity allowed him to transmit divine messages without alteration.
Moshe's Unique Prophetic Status
The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled—while other prophets received messages through visions or allegories, Moshe spoke with Hashem "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth"), as stated in Bamidbar 12:8. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was direct and unobscured, making him the ultimate conduit for Torah transmission.