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Leviticus 24:13 - Divine command to Moshe revealed

Leviticus 24:13 - ויקרא 24:13

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 (on Shemot 6:2) explains that this expression signifies a direct and clear communication from Hashem to Moshe, emphasizing the unique prophetic level of Moshe Rabbeinu, who received the Torah with unparalleled clarity (aspaklaria ha-me'ira).

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" ("Saying")

The word "לֵּאמֹר" is interpreted in multiple ways by our sages:

  • Rashi (Bereishit 1:1) notes that it often implies Moshe is to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael, underscoring his role as the intermediary.
  • Ramban (Shemot 25:1) adds that it may also indicate the permanence of the command, ensuring its transmission to future generations.
  • The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayikra 1) teaches that "לֵּאמֹר" hints at Moshe's humility—he faithfully conveyed Hashem's words without alteration.

The Unique Prophecy of Moshe

The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was distinct in that he received divine communication while fully awake and cognizant, unlike other prophets who experienced visions or dreams. This verse exemplifies the direct and unfiltered nature of Moshe's dialogue with Hashem.

Kabbalistic Insight

The Zohar (Shemot 15a) interprets "וַיְדַבֵּר" as an expression of divine love and closeness, suggesting that Hashem's speech to Moshe reflects an intimate bond, akin to a parent instructing a child with care and clarity.

📚 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 is a common introduction in the Torah indicating that Hashem is giving a direct commandment or teaching to Moshe (Moses) to transmit to the Jewish people. Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes the precision and authority of the divine communication.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The double language of 'spoke... saying' teaches that Moshe was commanded not only to hear the words himself, but also to clearly transmit them to the Jewish people. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) derives from this that a leader must teach Torah with clarity and accuracy.
Q: How many times does this phrase appear in the Torah?
A: The exact phrase 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying' appears over 70 times in the Torah, showing the constant communication between Hashem and Moshe. Each instance introduces new commandments or teachings for the Jewish people.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Rambam teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unique in its clarity and directness. This verse reminds us of the special relationship between Hashem and Moshe, and how Torah was given with perfect transmission from Hashem to Moshe to the Jewish people.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah specifies it was Moshe who received these words?
A: The Torah emphasizes Moshe's role because he was the primary prophet through whom Hashem gave the Torah. As the Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 3:15) explains, Moshe's unique level of prophecy established the authenticity and authority of the Torah's commandments for all generations.