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Leviticus 17:1 - Divine command to Moshe.

Leviticus 17:1 - ויקרא 17:1

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 phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר 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 (on Shemot 6:2) notes that this expression emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing Moshe's prophecy from that of other prophets, who often received messages through visions or allegories.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)

The word "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the divine words exactly as they were given, without alteration. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's unique role as the intermediary of the Torah required him to transmit Hashem's words with precision, ensuring the integrity of the divine message.

Moshe's Prophetic Distinction

The Talmud (Yevamos 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled—while other prophets experienced Hashem's word through a "dim glass," Moshe perceived it "through a clear glass." This verse underscores the immediacy and clarity of Moshe's communication with the Divine, a foundational principle in Jewish belief regarding the authenticity of the Torah.

Structural Role in the Torah

Ibn Ezra (on Shemot 25:1) observes that this phrasing often introduces new sections of mitzvos or narratives, serving as a structural marker in the Torah. It signifies a transition to a new divine instruction, reinforcing the Torah's divine origin and Moshe's role as its faithful transmitter.

  • Rashi: Highlights Moshe's direct and unambiguous prophecy.
  • Midrash: Emphasizes the imperative to transmit Hashem's words without change.
  • Rambam: Explains Moshe's unique prophetic clarity as essential for Torah transmission.
  • Talmud: Contrasts Moshe's prophecy with that of other prophets.
  • Ibn Ezra: Notes the literary function of this phrase in Torah structure.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean that 'the Lord spoke to Moshe saying'?
A: This phrase appears frequently in the Torah to introduce divine commandments. According to Rashi, it emphasizes that Moshe received these words directly from Hashem, not from his own understanding. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 56a) explains that this shows Moshe's unique role as the transmitter of Torah.
Q: Why does the Torah keep repeating 'the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Rambam (Introduction to Mishneh Torah) explains that each repetition shows a new communication from Hashem. The Midrash (Sifra) teaches that this repetition emphasizes the importance of each commandment as a separate divine utterance, not just part of a general revelation.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) describes that Moshe was the only prophet who heard Hashem's words with perfect clarity. This teaches us about the unique nature of Torah revelation - unlike other prophecies which came through dreams or visions, the Torah was given with absolute clarity at Mount Sinai and transmitted precisely through Moshe.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish practice today?
A: This introduction reminds us that all mitzvot in the Torah originate from divine command. The Sefer HaChinuch explains that keeping this in mind helps us perform mitzvot with proper intention, recognizing they are the word of Hashem communicated through Moshe Rabbeinu.
Q: Why does it say 'saying' after 'spoke'?
A: Rashi explains the word 'saying' (לֵּאמֹר) means Moshe was commanded to repeat these words to the Jewish people. The Ohr HaChaim adds that this teaches leaders must clearly transmit Torah teachings to the community without adding or omitting anything.