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Leviticus 22:33 - Divine liberation defines covenant.

Leviticus 22:33 - ויקרא 22:33

Hebrew Text

הַמּוֹצִיא אֶתְכֶם מֵאֶרֶץ מִצְרַיִם לִהְיוֹת לָכֶם לֵאלֹהִים אֲנִי יְהוָה׃

English Translation

who brought you out of the land of Miżrayim, to be your God: I am the Lord.

Transliteration

Hamotzi etkhem me'eretz mitzrayim lihyot lakhem lelohim ani Adonai.

Hebrew Leining Text

הַמּוֹצִ֤יא אֶתְכֶם֙ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם לִהְי֥וֹת לָכֶ֖ם לֵאלֹהִ֑ים אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָֽה׃ <span class="mam-spi-pe">{פ}</span><br>
הַמּוֹצִ֤יא אֶתְכֶם֙ מֵאֶ֣רֶץ מִצְרַ֔יִם לִהְי֥וֹת לָכֶ֖ם לֵאלֹהִ֑ים אֲנִ֖י יְהֹוָֽה׃ {פ}

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Parasha Commentary

The Significance of the Exodus

The verse states, "who brought you out of the land of Miżrayim, to be your God: I am the Lord." Rashi (on Vayikra 22:33) explains that the Exodus from Egypt was not merely an act of physical liberation but a foundational event establishing Hashem's unique relationship with the Jewish people. The purpose of the Exodus was to forge an eternal covenant, as the verse concludes, "to be your God." This demonstrates that the redemption was intrinsically tied to the acceptance of Torah and divine service.

The Purpose of Redemption

Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) emphasizes that the Exodus was a revelation of Hashem's sovereignty, proving His mastery over nature and history. The phrase "to be your God" implies a reciprocal bond—just as Hashem took Israel out of Egypt, Israel must recognize Him as their sole God. The Sforno adds that this relationship is not merely about worship but about elevating the nation to a higher spiritual purpose, as stated in Shemot 19:6, "You shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

The Divine Name "I am the Lord"

The concluding words, "I am the Lord," reinforce the eternal and unchanging nature of Hashem's covenant. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 6:4) teaches that this declaration signifies Hashem’s faithfulness—just as He redeemed Israel from Egypt, He will redeem them in future exiles. The name "הוי-ה" (the Tetragrammaton) represents divine mercy and eternal presence, assuring that His relationship with Israel is everlasting.

Key Lessons from the Verse

  • The Exodus was not just a historical event but the foundation of Israel's spiritual mission.
  • Hashem’s role as redeemer obligates Israel to serve Him exclusively.
  • The divine name at the end of the verse reaffirms the permanence of the covenant.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the Noachide laws and the obligations of non-Jews to recognize God's sovereignty.
📖 Makkot 23b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the commandments given at Marah and the broader context of divine commandments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'who brought you out of the land of Egypt to be your God' mean?
A: This verse emphasizes that Hashem redeemed the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt to establish a special relationship with them, making Him their God. Rashi explains that this demonstrates Hashem’s ongoing commitment to the Jewish people, as He chose them to serve Him and follow His commandments.
Q: Why does the verse repeat 'I am the Lord' at the end?
A: The repetition of 'I am the Lord' serves as a reminder of Hashem’s absolute authority and truth. According to Rambam, this reinforces that the Exodus was not just a historical event but a foundational proof of Hashem’s power and His unique bond with the Jewish people.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us that just as Hashem redeemed our ancestors from Egypt, He continues to guide and protect us. The Talmud (Berachot 9b) teaches that remembering the Exodus is a daily obligation, reinforcing our gratitude and commitment to serving Hashem in every generation.
Q: Why is the Exodus from Egypt mentioned so often in the Torah?
A: The Exodus is a central theme in the Torah because it demonstrates Hashem’s intervention in history to fulfill His covenant with the Jewish people. The Midrash (Mechilta) explains that recalling the Exodus strengthens our faith and reminds us of our purpose as a nation dedicated to Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from this verse?
A: The verse teaches us that our relationship with Hashem is based on His kindness in redeeming us and our commitment to serve Him. As the Sforno explains, this mutual bond requires us to live according to His commandments, recognizing Him as our God in both past and present.