Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 31:1 mean when it says Moshe spoke 'these words' to all Israel?
A: According to Rashi, 'these words' refer to the rebukes and warnings Moshe had just given in the previous chapters (Devarim 29-30), as well as the renewal of the covenant. The verse emphasizes that Moshe addressed the entire nation collectively before his passing.
Q: Why is it significant that Moshe spoke to 'all Israel' in this verse?
A: The Rambam teaches that gathering all of Israel together shows the unity of the nation and underscores that Torah was given to the entire people, not just leaders or select individuals. The Talmud (Chagigah 3a) notes that major teachings must be transmitted to the whole community.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Moshe making effort to 'go' speak to the people?
A: The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 9:1) explains this teaches leaders must actively reach out to their community rather than wait for people to come to them. Moshe, despite his age and nearing death, made the effort to gather and teach Israel, setting an example for all Torah educators.
Q: How does this verse connect to Moshe's approaching death?
A: Ibn Ezra explains this begins Moshe's final acts of leadership before his passing. The Sforno adds that he ensured to complete his mission by personally delivering his final messages, showing his dedication until the very end of his life.
Q: Why does the Torah mention both 'went' and 'spoke' in this verse?
A: The Kli Yakar teaches that 'went' implies Moshe physically moved among the tribes to address them where they were, while 'spoke' shows he adapted his words to each group's level of understanding. This demonstrates proper Torah teaching requires both physical presence and thoughtful communication.
Context in Sefer Devarim
The verse (Devarim 31:1) marks a transition in Moshe Rabbeinu's final address to Bnei Yisrael before his passing. Rashi explains that this passage begins Moshe's farewell discourse, where he prepares the nation for leadership under Yehoshua and reinforces the covenant with Hashem.
Significance of "Vayeilech Moshe"
The phrase "וַיֵּלֶךְ מֹשֶׁה" ("And Moshe went") is interpreted by the Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 9:1) as Moshe taking initiative to gather the people despite his advanced age (120 years). This demonstrates his unwavering commitment to teaching Torah until his last days, fulfilling the mitzvah of "וְשִׁנַּנְתָּם לְבָנֶיךָ" (teaching Torah diligently to one's children).
Communicating to All Israel
The emphasis on speaking to כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵל ("all Israel") carries several layers of meaning according to Orthodox Jewish commentators:
Connection to Hakhel
The Talmud (Chagigah 3a) connects this assembly to the mitzvah of Hakhel (Devarim 31:12), where the entire nation gathers to hear Torah reading during Sukkot following the Shemitah year. This demonstrates the eternal principle of communal Torah learning.
Leadership Transition
Ibn Ezra observes that this verse introduces the transition of leadership to Yehoshua, showing Moshe's humility in preparing the nation for new leadership while still faithfully discharging his duties until the very end.