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Numbers 13:1 - Divine command before exploration

Numbers 13:1 - במדבר 13:1

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 beginning of divine commandments or revelations. Rashi (on Shemot 6:2) explains that this phrase emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy, which might be through visions or dreams (see Bamidbar 12:6-8). Moshe's prophecy was unique—"פה אל פה אדבר בו" ("mouth to mouth I speak with him").

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" ("Saying")

The word "לֵּאמֹר" indicates that Moshe was to relay the divine message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (on Bereishit 8:15) notes that this term often implies transmission to others, highlighting Moshe's role as the intermediary between Hashem and the people. The Sforno adds that this underscores Moshe's faithfulness in accurately conveying Hashem's words without alteration.

Context in the Chain of Tradition

The Talmud (Yoma 4b) derives from this phrasing the principle of "משה מפי הגבורה"—that Moshe received Torah directly from the Almighty. This is foundational to the Orthodox Jewish belief in the divine origin of the Torah. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was of a higher level than all other prophets, as he communicated with Hashem while fully awake and cognizant.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash Tanchuma (Vaera 2) teaches that each time this phrase appears, it signifies a new and distinct divine utterance, emphasizing the ongoing, living nature of Torah.
  • Alternatively, the Zohar (Shemot 7a) suggests that "וַיְדַבֵּר" represents a harsher tone of communication, while "וַיֹּאמֶר" is softer, indicating the varying modes of Hashem's speech depending on the context.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean when the verse says 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying'?
A: This phrase is a common introduction in the Torah indicating that Hashem (G-d) is giving a direct commandment or message to Moshe (Moses). According to Rashi, this emphasizes that Moshe received the divine word clearly and accurately to transmit to the Jewish people.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'spoke'?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains that the word 'saying' (לֵּאמֹר) teaches that Moshe was commanded to repeat and explain the words of Hashem to the Jewish people. This shows the importance of clear transmission of Torah teachings.
Q: How is this phrase significant in understanding Torah?
A: This introductory phrase appears frequently in the Torah to show that the commandments come directly from Hashem. The Rambam (Maimonides) in his principles of faith states this demonstrates the divine origin of the Torah and Moshe's unique role as prophet.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) teaches that Hashem spoke to Moshe clearly and directly, showing the special relationship between G-d and Moshe. This teaches us about the importance of direct, clear communication in our own relationships and Torah study.
Q: Does this phrase appear elsewhere in the Torah?
A: Yes, this exact phrase appears over 70 times in the Torah, particularly in Leviticus and Numbers. According to traditional commentators, this repetition emphasizes that all commandments come from the same divine source and through Moshe as the faithful transmitter of G-d's word.