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Exodus 4:12 - Divine words through Moses' mouth

Exodus 4:12 - שמות 4:12

Hebrew Text

וְעַתָּה לֵךְ וְאָנֹכִי אֶהְיֶה עִם־פִּיךָ וְהוֹרֵיתִיךָ אֲשֶׁר תְּדַבֵּר׃

English Translation

Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.

Transliteration

Ve'ata lech ve'anochi ehyeh im-picha vehoreiticha asher tedaber.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעַתָּ֖ה לֵ֑ךְ וְאָנֹכִי֙ אֶֽהְיֶ֣ה עִם־פִּ֔יךָ וְהוֹרֵיתִ֖יךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר תְּדַבֵּֽר׃
וְעַתָּ֖ה לֵ֑ךְ וְאָנֹכִי֙ אֶֽהְיֶ֣ה עִם־פִּ֔יךָ וְהוֹרֵיתִ֖יךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר תְּדַבֵּֽר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Shemot 4:12) is part of Hashem's response to Moshe Rabbeinu's hesitation to accept the mission of leading Bnei Yisrael out of Mitzrayim. Moshe had expressed concern about his ability to speak effectively (Shemot 4:10), to which Hashem reassures him with this promise of divine assistance.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that Hashem is telling Moshe: "Now that you have argued and delayed, nevertheless, go - for I will be with your mouth." Rashi emphasizes that despite Moshe's reluctance, Hashem insists he proceed, promising to guide his speech. Rashi further notes that "I will be with your mouth" means Hashem will place the appropriate words in Moshe's mouth when needed.

Rambam's Perspective

The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 1:65) discusses how prophecy works, explaining that when Hashem says "I will be with your mouth," it refers to the divine inspiration that will guide Moshe's words. This assurance shows that true nevuah (prophecy) comes from Hashem's direct communication with the navi.

Talmudic Insights

  • The Talmud (Nedarim 38a) states that Moshe merited this divine assistance in speech because of his humility and willingness to acknowledge his limitations.
  • In Megillah 18b, the Sages derive from this verse that when one goes to perform a mitzvah, Hashem assists them in their mission.

Midrashic Interpretations

The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 3:14) elaborates that Hashem's promise "I will be with your mouth" was fulfilled when Moshe stood before Pharaoh. The Midrash describes how Moshe's mouth would move and the appropriate words would come forth, demonstrating that his speech was divinely guided.

Chassidic Perspective

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that this verse contains a eternal lesson: When a Jew sets out to do Hashem's will, even if they feel inadequate, Hashem provides the necessary abilities and words. The divine promise isn't limited to Moshe but extends to all who undertake sacred missions with pure intent.

Halachic Implication

The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 53:4) cites this verse as proof that a shaliach tzibbur (prayer leader) who is not perfectly articulate should not be disqualified, as Hashem assists those who serve the community with proper intention.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 31a
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing prayer and divine assistance in speech, illustrating how God aids those who speak on His behalf.
📖 Megillah 31b
The verse is cited in relation to the reading of the Torah and the divine support given to those who teach and transmit its words.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Exodus 4:12 mean?
A: In Exodus 4:12, Hashem reassures Moshe (Moses) that even though he feels inadequate to speak to Pharaoh, Hashem will be with his mouth and teach him what to say. Rashi explains that this means Hashem would place the right words in Moshe's mouth, giving him the ability to speak effectively.
Q: Why is Exodus 4:12 important?
A: This verse is important because it teaches us that when Hashem assigns a mission, He also provides the necessary abilities to fulfill it. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) emphasizes that prophecy and divine missions come with divine assistance—Moshe's hesitation and Hashem's reassurance highlight this principle.
Q: What can we learn from Exodus 4:12?
A: We learn that when we are given a sacred task, we should trust in Hashem's support rather than our own limitations. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 3:14) explains that Moshe's humility made him worthy of this divine assistance, teaching us that humility and faith are key when serving Hashem.
Q: How does Exodus 4:12 apply to us today?
A: Just as Hashem guided Moshe's words, we can pray for siyata dishmaya (heavenly assistance) when speaking for a holy purpose, such as teaching Torah or standing up for truth. The Talmud (Berachot 33b) teaches that proper speech and wisdom come from Hashem, reminding us to seek His help in our words and actions.