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Leviticus 12:1 - Purification after childbirth commanded

Leviticus 12:1 - ויקרא 12:1

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 verse "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying") appears frequently in the Torah, marking the beginning of divine commandments or revelations. Rashi (on Shemot 6:2) explains that this phrase emphasizes the direct and unmediated communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing Moshe's prophecy from that of other prophets. Unlike other nevi'im who received messages through visions or dreams, Moshe heard Hashem's words clearly, as if in conversation (Bamidbar 12:6-8).

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)

The term "לֵּאמֹר" is often interpreted by commentators as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (on Shemot 25:1) notes that this word underscores Moshe's role as the intermediary, tasked with transmitting divine teachings to the people. The Sforno adds that this phrasing highlights Moshe's faithfulness in conveying Hashem's words precisely, without alteration.

Context in Torah Shebichtav and Torah Sheba'al Peh

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was unique in its clarity (aspaklaria ha'me'ira—"a clear lens"), unlike the obscured visions of other prophets. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) further teaches that every divine utterance to Moshe was accompanied by the kolot u'vrakim (thunder and lightning) at Har Sinai, symbolizing the enduring authority of Torah law.

  • Rashi: Emphasizes the immediacy and clarity of Moshe's prophecy.
  • Ramban: Focuses on Moshe's role as a faithful transmitter of divine commandments.
  • Talmud: Distinguishes Moshe's prophecy as unparalleled in its directness.
  • Midrash: Connects the ongoing divine speech to the revelation at Sinai.

📚 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 new commandment or teaching to Moshe to transmit to the Jewish people. Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes the divine origin of the laws that follow.
Q: Why does the Torah frequently repeat 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying'?
A: The repetition teaches us that each commandment comes directly from Hashem. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains that this phrasing shows Moshe didn't add or subtract anything from what he was told - he transmitted the exact words he received.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: We learn about the importance of clear communication in transmitting Torah. Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that Moshe received prophecies with perfect clarity, unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or parables.
Q: Why is this introduction important before the laws of purity in Leviticus 12?
A: The introduction reminds us that even laws we might not fully understand come from Hashem's wisdom. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 14:1) teaches that all of Hashem's words, including those about purity, are given with love and purpose.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: It reminds us that the entire Torah - including laws we might find challenging - comes from Hashem. The Sforno explains that this introduction helps us approach all mitzvot with equal reverence, recognizing they all share the same divine source.