Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Moshe 'found favor' in Hashem's sight?
A: Rashi explains that 'finding favor' means Moshe was beloved and cherished by Hashem. This special relationship was earned through Moshe's humility, dedication, and his constant advocacy for the Jewish people.
Q: Why does the verse say Hashem 'knows Moshe by name'?
A: The Rambam teaches that knowing someone 'by name' indicates an intimate, personal relationship. Hashem recognized Moshe's unique qualities and called him by name, showing their close bond - unlike the general way Hashem relates to prophets.
Q: What was the 'thing' that Hashem agreed to do for Moshe?
A: According to the Talmud (Berachos 7a), this refers to Hashem's promise to forgive the Jewish people after the sin of the golden calf. Moshe had pleaded for mercy, and Hashem granted this request because of their special relationship.
Q: How can we apply the idea of 'finding favor' in our lives today?
A: The Midrash teaches that just as Moshe found favor through humility and service, we too can merit divine favor by developing good character traits (middos), performing mitzvos with sincerity, and showing care for others, following Moshe's example.
Q: Why is this verse important in understanding Moshe's role?
A: This verse demonstrates Moshe's unique status as the greatest prophet, as explained by Rambam in Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah. The intimate relationship shown here establishes why Moshe alone could receive the Torah directly from Hashem for the Jewish people.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Shemot 33:17) appears in the aftermath of the sin of the Golden Calf, where Moshe Rabbeinu pleads with Hashem to forgive Bnei Yisrael and to continue dwelling among them. The verse follows Moshe's request for Hashem's presence to accompany the nation (Shemot 33:16).
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that the phrase "גַּם אֶת־הַדָּבָר הַזֶּה" ("also this thing") refers to Hashem's agreement to Moshe's earlier request (in Shemot 33:13) to "make known to me Your ways." Rashi emphasizes that Hashem granted this request because Moshe "found favor in His sight," indicating that Moshe's unique relationship with Hashem merited this divine revelation.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (1:54), Rambam discusses the concept of divine "knowing" in this verse. He explains that "וָאֵדָעֲךָ בְּשֵׁם" ("and I know you by name") signifies an elevated level of divine providence and closeness. Unlike general providence, which applies to all creation, Moshe achieved a unique level where Hashem directed His providence to him individually—a recognition of Moshe's perfected intellect and prophetic stature.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 45:6) elaborates on the phrase "מָצָאתָ חֵן בְּעֵינַי" ("you have found favor in My sight"). It compares Moshe to a king's beloved friend who requests a favor, and the king grants it because of their close relationship. Similarly, Hashem granted Moshe's requests due to their unparalleled bond—exemplified by Moshe's role as the intermediary for Bnei Yisrael.
Ibn Ezra's Insight
Ibn Ezra notes that the term "בְּשֵׁם" ("by name") implies personal distinction. While Hashem knows all creatures, knowing someone "by name" denotes intimate recognition—akin to how one knows a close friend. This reflects Moshe's singular status as the greatest of all prophets.
Practical Lessons