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Leviticus 24:1 - Divine command to Moshe

Leviticus 24:1 - ויקרא 24:1

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 (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 come through dreams or visions (Bamidbar 12:6-8). Moshe's prophecy was unique—"פה אל פה אדבר בו" ("mouth to mouth I speak with him")—indicating unparalleled clarity.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 7:48) as instructing Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe served as the intermediary to convey Hashem's words precisely, ensuring the nation received the Torah without distortion. This underscores the principle of משה רבינו אמת ותורתו אמת ("Moshe our teacher is true, and his Torah is true").

Structural Context in the Torah

This introductory phrase often precedes major commandments or pivotal events. The Talmud (Megillah 31b) notes that such verses establish the divine origin of mitzvos, reinforcing that they are not of human origin but from Hashem. The Ramban (Bereishis 1:1) adds that these words highlight Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of Torah, ensuring its eternal authenticity.

  • Rashi: Emphasizes the clarity and directness of Hashem's speech to Moshe.
  • Midrash: Explains "לֵּאמֹר" as a directive for Moshe to teach Bnei Yisrael.
  • Rambam: Stresses Moshe's unique prophetic role in preserving Torah transmission.
  • Talmud: Links this phrasing to the divine authority of mitzvos.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the Torah say 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying' so many times?
A: The repetition of this phrase throughout the Torah emphasizes that every word comes directly from Hashem to Moshe. Rashi explains that this wording shows the careful transmission of divine commandments, ensuring nothing was added or omitted (based on Shemot 19:7).
Q: What is the significance of the double language 'dibber...lemor' (spoke...saying)?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) teaches that 'lemor' indicates Moshe was instructed to repeat these words to the Jewish people. This shows Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of Torah to all generations.
Q: Why does this verse appear at the beginning of a new section about the menorah?
A: The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 31:7) explains that each new divine communication is introduced this way to show that Torah is not man-made, but comes directly from Hashem - even when discussing practical mitzvot like lighting the menorah.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish belief about prophecy?
A: The Rambam (Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) cites such verses as proof that Moshe's prophecy was unique - Hashem spoke to him directly and clearly, unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or dreams.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn from this verse today?
A: The Ohr HaChaim teaches that this phrasing reminds us that Torah wisdom must be transmitted exactly as received, without alteration. This applies today whenever we teach Torah to others - we must be careful to preserve its authentic meaning.