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Exodus 19:25 - Moshe delivers divine message.

Exodus 19:25 - שמות 19:25

Hebrew Text

וַיֵּרֶד מֹשֶׁה אֶל־הָעָם וַיֹּאמֶר אֲלֵהֶם׃

English Translation

So Moshe went down to the people, and spoke to them.

Transliteration

Va'yered Moshe el-ha'am va'yomer alehem.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֵּ֥רֶד מֹשֶׁ֖ה אֶל־הָעָ֑ם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵהֶֽם׃ <span class="mam-spi-samekh">{ס}</span>        
וַיֵּ֥רֶד מֹשֶׁ֖ה אֶל־הָעָ֑ם וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אֲלֵהֶֽם׃ {ס}        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Exodus 19:25) explains that Moshe descended from Har Sinai to the foot of the mountain where Bnei Yisrael were encamped. The phrase "וַיֵּרֶד מֹשֶׁה" ("So Moshe went down") emphasizes Moshe's humility—despite his elevated spiritual state after ascending the mountain, he lowered himself to communicate Hashem's words to the people on their level.

Rambam's Perspective

In Moreh Nevuchim (1:54), Rambam discusses how Moshe served as the intermediary between Hashem and Klal Yisrael. This verse demonstrates Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of divine commandments, ensuring the people received the Torah with clarity and without distortion.

Midrashic Insights

The Mechilta (Yitro, Massechta DeBaChodesh 9) elaborates that Moshe's descent was not merely physical but also symbolic of bringing kedusha (holiness) from the heavenly realm to the earthly camp. This mirrors the later giving of the Torah, where Hashem's presence descended upon Har Sinai.

  • Preparation for Matan Torah: The Sforno notes that this interaction was crucial in preparing Bnei Yisrael to receive the Torah, as Moshe unified them through his words.
  • Leadership Model: The Kli Yakar highlights that Moshe's willingness to "go down" teaches leaders to engage with their communities personally rather than from a distance.

Talmudic Context

In Maseches Shabbos (89a), Chazal discuss Moshe's unique role in bridging the gap between the divine and human realms. This verse is cited as an example of Moshe's tireless dedication to fulfilling his mission as Hashem's emissary to Am Yisrael.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Moshe go down to the people in Exodus 19:25?
A: Rashi explains that Moshe descended from Har Sinai to deliver Hashem's words to Bnei Yisrael, acting as the intermediary between G-d and the people during the preparation for Matan Torah (the giving of the Torah).
Q: What was Moshe telling the people in this verse?
A: According to the Midrash (Mechilta), Moshe was conveying the final instructions before the revelation at Har Sinai, including the importance of proper boundaries and kedushah (holiness) as they prepared to receive the Torah.
Q: Why is this verse important in the Torah?
A: This verse marks the transition to the pivotal moment of Kabbalat HaTorah (receiving the Torah). The Rambam teaches that Moshe's role here established the authenticity of Torah she'Baal Peh (Oral Torah) as he explained G-d's words to the people.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Moshe going down to speak to the people?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 105b) derives from this that leaders must make themselves accessible to the community. Moshe, despite his lofty level, humbly descended to teach the people on their level.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Just as Moshe brought Hashem's words to that generation, our rabbis and teachers continue this tradition today by explaining Torah in ways we can understand. This verse reminds us of the importance of Torah teachers connecting with their students.