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Exodus 31:12 - Shabbat: Divine sign forever

Exodus 31:12 - שמות 31:12

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying,

Transliteration

Vayomer Adonai el-Moshe lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃
וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Divine Communication to Moshe

The phrase "וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying") appears frequently in the Torah, marking the transmission of divine commandments and teachings. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) notes that this formulation emphasizes the precision of Moshe's role as the conduit for Hashem's word—Moshe did not alter or add to the divine message but conveyed it exactly as received.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (Bamidbar 30:2) expands on this, explaining that "לֵּאמֹר" implies a chain of transmission, ensuring the continuity of Torah from generation to generation.

  • Rashi's View: "לֵּאמֹר" means Moshe was commanded to speak these words to others, usually to Aharon or the people (Rashi on Shemot 19:7).
  • Ibn Ezra's Insight: The term underscores the prophetic nature of Moshe's role—his words were not his own but divine instruction (Ibn Ezra on Shemot 6:10).

The Unique Relationship Between Hashem and Moshe

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled, as he communicated with Hashem "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth"), with absolute clarity. This verse reflects that direct and intimate connection, distinguishing Moshe from all other prophets.

Halachic Implications

Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) derives from such verses that Moshe's prophecy is the foundation of Torah law. Any claim of prophecy contradicting Moshe's teachings is false, as his communication with Hashem was the definitive standard.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean when the Torah 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) to transmit to the Jewish people. Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes the precision with which Moshe conveyed Hashem's words to Bnei Yisrael.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'spoke' in this verse?
A: The double language of 'spoke... saying' teaches that Moshe was commanded not only to hear Hashem's words but to actively repeat and teach them to others. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) derives from this that leaders must clearly transmit Torah teachings to the next generation.
Q: How many times does this phrase appear in the Torah?
A: The exact phrase 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying' appears over 70 times in the Torah. The Ramban notes that each occurrence marks a new divine communication, showing how frequently Hashem guided the Jewish people through Moshe during their journey in the wilderness.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem communicated with Moshe?
A: We learn the importance of direct, clear communication in transmitting Torah. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) explains that Hashem spoke to Moshe 'face to face' (Exodus 33:11) to model how Torah leaders should teach with clarity and patience.
Q: Does this phrase have any special significance in Jewish tradition?
A: Yes, this introductory phrase establishes Moshe's unique role as the transmitter of Torah. The Rambam (Maimonides) in his 13 Principles of Faith states this phrase proves Moshe's prophecy was the highest level, as he received direct communication from Hashem unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or dreams.