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Leviticus 22:1 - Divine command to Moshe

Leviticus 22:1 - ויקרא 22:1

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 transmission of divine commandments. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) explains that this phrasing emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy, which may be conveyed through visions or allegories.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)

The term "לֵּאמֹר" is interpreted by the Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 1:1) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's role as the intermediary was unique—his prophecy was transmitted with absolute clarity, without any distortion, unlike other prophets.

  • Rashi's View: The word "לֵּאמֹר" implies that Moshe was to repeat Hashem's words verbatim to the people (Rashi on Shemot 19:7).
  • Ramban's Insight: Ramban (Bamidbar 1:1) adds that this phrasing underscores Moshe's humility—he did not alter the message based on his own understanding but conveyed it precisely as received.

The Unique Prophecy of Moshe

The Talmud (Yevamos 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled—he spoke with Hashem "face to face" (Devarim 34:10), a level of clarity no other prophet attained. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:35) further explains that Moshe's prophecy was free from allegory or parable, making it the foundation of Torah transmission.

Context in the Torah

This introductory phrase often precedes major commandments or pivotal events. The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayikra 1) notes that each instance of divine speech to Moshe was tailored to the situation, whether instructing the Mishkan's construction, the giving of the Torah, or guiding Bnei Yisrael in the wilderness.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 4a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the communication between God and Moses, particularly in the context of the commandments given in the Torah.
📖 Megillah 31b
The verse is cited as part of a broader discussion on the nature of divine communication and prophecy in the Torah.

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 to transmit to Bnei Yisrael with precision and authenticity.
Q: Why does the Torah keep repeating 'the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Rambam explains that each repetition shows a new communication event, not merely a continuation of the previous one. This teaches us that every mitzvah was given with its own significance and at its appropriate time.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe was unique in receiving prophecy 'face to face.' This sets the standard for divine communication in Judaism and shows the clarity of Torah transmission.
Q: How does this verse connect to the commandments that follow it?
A: As the Sforno explains, this introduction in Leviticus 22:1 specifically precedes laws about priestly sanctity, showing that even the kohanim's service requires direct divine authorization through Moshe's prophecy.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah specifies Moshe as the receiver of these words?
A: The Midrash (Sifra) emphasizes that this establishes Moshe's unique role as the transmitter of Torah. It reminds us that our observance is based on an unbroken chain of tradition originating from divine revelation at Sinai.