Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is speaking in Exodus 4:13 and what is happening in this verse?
A: In Exodus 4:13, Moshe (Moses) is speaking to Hashem at the burning bush. After Hashem assigns him the mission to lead the Jewish people out of Egypt, Moshe hesitates and asks Hashem to send someone else instead. Rashi explains that Moshe felt someone more worthy should be chosen for this great task.
Q: Why did Moshe ask Hashem to send someone else in Exodus 4:13?
A: According to traditional Jewish sources like Rashi and the Midrash, Moshe didn't want the honor for himself and felt his brother Aharon (Aaron) would be more suitable since Aharon was older and had been serving as a leader among the Jews in Egypt. The Rambam teaches that true leaders are reluctant to accept leadership positions.
Q: What can we learn from Moshe's response in Exodus 4:13?
A: We learn the importance of humility in leadership. As the Talmud (Nedarim 38a) states, Hashem gives leadership roles only to those who are humble. Moshe's reluctance shows his exceptional character - true leaders don't seek honor but accept responsibility when called upon.
Q: How does Hashem respond to Moshe's request in Exodus 4:13?
A: In the following verses (Exodus 4:14-16), Hashem becomes somewhat displeased with Moshe's hesitation but compromises by appointing Aharon as Moshe's spokesman. The Midrash explains this shows that while humility is praiseworthy, one shouldn't refuse a divine mission when clearly called to it.
Q: Why is Exodus 4:13 important in understanding Moshe's character?
A: This verse reveals key aspects of Moshe's personality that made him the ideal leader. As the Torah later describes (Numbers 12:3), Moshe was the most humble man. His reluctance to take glory for himself, as shown here, demonstrates why he was worthy to receive the Torah and lead the Jewish people.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Shemot 4:13) appears during Moshe's dialogue with Hashem at the burning bush, where Moshe initially resists the mission to lead Bnei Yisrael out of Mitzrayim. This plea follows Moshe's previous objections regarding his perceived inadequacies.
Rashi's Interpretation
Rashi explains that Moshe's words, "בְּיַד־תִּשְׁלָח" ("by the hand of him whom thou wilt send"), imply a reluctance to accept the mission. Rashi suggests Moshe was effectively saying, "Send through another messenger whom You usually send"—referring to Aharon, who had previously served as a prophet to Bnei Yisrael in Mitzrayim (Shemot Rabba 3:16). Moshe preferred Aharon take the role due to his seniority and prior prophetic experience.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) discusses Moshe's humility, emphasizing that his hesitation stemmed not from defiance but from genuine humility and awe of the Divine mission. Moshe's request reflects his belief that another might be more fitting for such a sacred task.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Ethical Lessons
The verse teaches the importance of humility in leadership, as exemplified by Moshe Rabbeinu. However, Chazal also note that excessive hesitation—even for noble reasons—can delay the fulfillment of Hashem's will (see Ramban on Shemot 4:13). Ultimately, Hashem insists that Moshe must lead, demonstrating that Divine selection overrides human reservations.