Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Torah say 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying' so many times?
A: The phrase 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying' appears frequently in the Torah to emphasize that every commandment comes directly from Hashem. Rashi explains that this wording shows Moshe did not add or subtract anything from the divine message, ensuring the authenticity of Torah law.
Q: What is the significance of Leviticus 19:1 in the Torah?
A: Leviticus 19:1 introduces the section known as Kedoshim, which contains many fundamental mitzvot. The Ramban teaches that this verse sets the tone for the entire chapter by instructing us to strive for holiness in our daily lives, showing that every action can be elevated to serve Hashem.
Q: Why does the verse mention that Hashem spoke specifically to Moshe?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) explains that Moshe was unique among prophets - while others received visions, Hashem spoke to Moshe clearly 'face to face.' This verse reminds us that Torah comes through Moshe's pure transmission, without any distortion, as Maimonides discusses in his principles of faith.
Q: How does this verse connect to the commandments that follow it?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 24:1) teaches that this introduction precedes the commandment 'You shall be holy' to show that all the detailed laws that follow - from honoring parents to ethical business practices - are pathways to achieving holiness in our relationship with Hashem and with other people.
Q: What can we learn today from how Hashem communicated with Moshe?
A: The Sforno explains that this communication model teaches us about proper leadership - just as Moshe faithfully transmitted Hashem's words without alteration, we must be careful to transmit Torah teachings accurately. It also reminds us that Torah is divine wisdom, not human invention, as the Kuzari discusses at length.
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 signifies a clear and direct communication from Hashem to Moshe, emphasizing Moshe's unique prophetic stature. Unlike other prophets who received visions or allegories, Moshe heard Hashem's words with unparalleled clarity, as stated in Bamidbar 12:8: "Peh el peh adaber bo" ("Mouth to mouth I speak with him").
The Significance of "Leimor"
The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the divine message to Bnei Yisrael. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that this underscores the role of Moshe as the intermediary between Hashem and the nation, ensuring the accurate transmission of Torah. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) further elaborates that every divine communication to Moshe included this directive, reinforcing his obligation to teach the people.
Structure of Divine Speech
Kabbalistic Insight
The Zohar (Shemos 80b) associates this phrase with the sefirah of Malchus, representing the channel through which divine wisdom descends into the physical world. Moshe, as the "faithful shepherd," served as the conduit for this flow of holiness, ensuring that every word was preserved without alteration.