Numbers 3:14 - Divine command in Sinai's wilderness

Join Our Newsletter To Be Informed When New Videos Are Posted

Join the thousands of fellow Studends who rely on our videos to learn how to read the bible in Hebrew for free!

Hebrew Text

וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה בְּמִדְבַּר סִינַי לֵאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe in the wilderness of Sinay, saying,

Transliteration

Vayedaber Adonai el-Moshe b'midbar Sinai lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְדַבֵּ֤ר יְהֹוָה֙ אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֔ה בְּמִדְבַּ֥ר סִינַ֖י לֵאמֹֽר׃

Parasha Commentary

Location of Divine Revelation

The verse states that Hashem spoke to Moshe "in the wilderness of Sinai". Rashi (Bamidbar 1:1) explains that the Torah emphasizes this location to teach that the Torah was given in a desolate, ownerless place. This conveys that Torah is accessible to all who seek it, just as the wilderness is open to everyone. The Midrash Tanchuma (Bamidbar 1) expands on this idea, stating that had the Torah been given in Eretz Yisrael, the nations might claim exclusive rights to it. By giving it in the wilderness, it demonstrates that Torah belongs to all who accept it.

Significance of Sinai

The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:24) notes that Sinai was chosen as the site of revelation because its stark, humble environment symbolized the ideal state for receiving Torah—free from distractions and material concerns. The Talmud (Shabbat 89b) further explains that the name "Sinai" is derived from "sinah" (hatred), alluding to the fact that the nations' hatred of Israel stems from their acceptance of the Torah at this mountain.

The Wilderness as a Spiritual Preparation

The Sforno (Bamidbar 1:1) teaches that the wilderness was a place of testing and refinement for Bnei Yisrael. Just as the desert lacks physical comforts, the acceptance of Torah requires detachment from worldly excesses. The Ohr HaChaim (Bamidbar 1:1) adds that the wilderness represents humility, a prerequisite for Torah study, as one must empty oneself of arrogance to properly absorb divine wisdom.

Divine Communication with Moshe

Rashi (Shemot 19:3): The phrase "And the Lord spoke to Moshe" underscores Moshe's unique prophetic stature—Hashem communicated with him directly and clearly, unlike other prophets who received visions or parables.
Rambam (Yesodei HaTorah 7:6): Moshe's prophecy at Sinai was the highest level of divine communication, marked by absolute clarity and without intermediary angels.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 4b

The verse is referenced in a discussion about the timing and location of divine communications to Moses.

📖 Megillah 31b

Cited in the context of discussing the appropriate readings for certain holidays, linking the wilderness setting to themes of revelation.

📖 Sanhedrin 56b

Mentioned in a broader discussion about the giving of the Torah and the significance of the wilderness as a place of divine encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Hashem speak to Moshe in the wilderness of Sinai?
A: The wilderness of Sinai was a place of humility and openness, teaching us that Torah is best received with a humble heart. Rashi explains that the Torah was given in a desert to show it is free for all who wish to learn it, just as a desert is ownerless (Mechilta, Yitro 1).

Q: What is the significance of the phrase 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe' appearing so often in the Torah?
A: This phrase emphasizes that every word of the Torah comes directly from Hashem to Moshe. The Rambam (Maimonides) lists this as one of the 13 Principles of Faith—that the entire Torah was given by G-d (Commentary on Mishnah, Sanhedrin 10:1).

Q: Why does the Torah specify the location ('wilderness of Sinai') in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 1:7) teaches that the wilderness symbolizes the need for humility when receiving Torah. Just as the desert is empty, we must make ourselves 'empty' of arrogance to properly absorb Torah wisdom.

Q: How does this verse connect to the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai?
A: Although this verse appears in Numbers, it reminds us of the foundational event at Sinai where the Torah was given. The Talmud (Shabbat 89a) notes that Sinai was chosen because it was a modest mountain, teaching that Torah thrives where there is humility.

Q: What practical lesson can we learn from this verse today?
A: Just as Moshe received Torah in a wilderness, we must create a 'wilderness' in our hearts—removing distractions and ego—to properly study Torah. The Sages teach that Torah is acquired through 48 qualities, the first being 'study with humility' (Avot 6:6).