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Exodus 31:1 - Divinely chosen craftsman's sacred mission

Exodus 31:1 - שמות 31:1

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 in the Torah, marking the transmission of divine commandments. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) explains that this expression signifies a clear and direct communication from Hashem to Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy, which may be less direct or through visions.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)

The word "לֵּאמֹר" is often interpreted by commentators as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (Bereishit 1:1) notes that this term emphasizes Moshe's role as the intermediary, ensuring the divine word is accurately conveyed to the people.

Moshe's Unique Prophetic Stature

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unique—Hashem spoke to him "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth"), unlike other prophets who received messages through dreams or visions. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was the highest level, with absolute clarity and without intermediary metaphors.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) highlights that every divine communication to Moshe was preceded by his name, showing Hashem's personal relationship and affection for him.
  • Another Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 14:20) compares Moshe to a faithful scribe, meticulously recording every word from Hashem without alteration.

📚 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 or instruction to Moshe (Moses). Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes the clarity and precision of divine communication, showing that Moshe received the exact words from Hashem to transmit to the Jewish people.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) teaches that the double language of 'spoke... saying' indicates that Moshe was commanded not only to hear the words himself but also to convey them to others—specifically to the Jewish people. This highlights Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of Hashem's commandments.
Q: How does this verse connect to the rest of Exodus 31?
A: This verse introduces the commandments about Betzalel and the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The Ramban explains that the phrasing emphasizes that even skilled craftsmanship like building the Mishkan must be done according to divine instruction, showing that all aspects of service to Hashem require His guidance.
Q: What can we learn from the way Hashem speaks to Moshe in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 34:1) teaches that Hashem's direct communication with Moshe demonstrates the unique level of prophecy Moshe attained. Unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or dreams, Moshe heard Hashem's words clearly, teaching us about the unparalleled nature of Torah revelation at Sinai.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah specifies that Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Rambam (Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that this establishes the authenticity of Moshe's prophecy. Since Moshe received commandments directly from Hashem, we can be certain of the Torah's divine origin. This principle is fundamental to Jewish belief in the truth of the Torah's transmission.