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Leviticus 22:17 - Divine command to Moshe

Leviticus 22:17 - ויקרא 22:17

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. Rashi (on Shemot 6:2) notes that this expression signifies a clear and direct communication from Hashem to Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy, which may be conveyed through visions or dreams (Bamidbar 12:6-8).

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that Moshe served as the intermediary to deliver Hashem's words with precision, without adding or omitting anything.

Moshe's Unique Prophetic Role

  • The Talmud (Yevamos 49b) emphasizes that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled, as he communicated with Hashem "face to face" (Devarim 34:10).
  • Ramban (on Shemot 6:2) highlights that this phrase underscores the authenticity and authority of Moshe's transmission of Torah law.

The Structure of Divine Commandments

This introductory formula often precedes mitzvos, as noted by the Mechilta (Bo 1). It establishes the divine origin of halacha and reinforces the principle of Torah min HaShamayim (the Torah's heavenly source). The Ohr HaChaim (on Shemot 6:2) adds that each instance of this phrase renews Moshe's prophetic clarity, ensuring the accuracy of the transmission.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean when the Torah says 'And 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 direct communication from Hashem to transmit to the Jewish people. The word 'saying' (לֵּאמֹר) indicates that Moshe was to repeat these words exactly to the nation.
Q: Why does the Torah keep repeating 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Rambam explains that each repetition shows a new communication from Hashem. The Talmud (Megillah 32a) teaches that this phrasing reminds us that every word of Torah is equally sacred and important, whether we understand its reason or not. The repetition also teaches us about Moshe's unique role as the transmitter of Torah.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Sifra) teaches that this shows the great care Hashem took in communicating mitzvot. The clear, direct speech demonstrates the importance of precise transmission of Torah. Just as Moshe received and transmitted Torah faithfully, we must be careful in learning and teaching Torah accurately.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: The Ohr HaChaim explains that this verse establishes the principle of Torah she'ba'al peh (Oral Torah) - that Moshe received explanations along with the written words. Today, we continue this tradition through Torah study with rabbinic guidance. The verse reminds us that authentic Torah understanding comes through the chain of transmission from Moshe to today's sages.