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Numbers 20:7 - Divine command to Moshe: Speak!

Numbers 20:7 - במדבר 20:7

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 transmission of divine commandments and teachings. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) notes that this phrase emphasizes the direct and unmediated communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing Moshe's prophecy from that of other prophets. Unlike other nevi'im who received messages through dreams or visions (Bamidbar 12:6-8), Moshe spoke with Hashem "face to face," as it were, in clear and direct dialogue.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" ("Saying")

The word "לֵּאמֹר" is often interpreted by commentators as an instruction for Moshe to relay the divine message to Bnei Yisrael. The Ramban (Bereishit 1:1) explains that this term underscores Moshe's role as the intermediary, tasked with conveying Hashem's words faithfully to the people. The Sforno adds that this establishes the principle of מסורת (transmission), ensuring the continuity of Torah teachings from generation to generation.

The Unique Prophetic Level of Moshe

  • Clarity of Prophecy: The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled—while other prophets experienced visions shrouded in metaphor, Moshe received the Torah with absolute clarity.
  • Direct Communication: The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 3:15) elaborates that Moshe was able to initiate dialogue with Hashem, as seen in his requests and prayers, demonstrating his unique relationship with the Divine.
  • Timeless Authority: The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) rules that no future prophet may contradict Moshe's teachings, as his prophecy remains the definitive revelation from Har Sinai.

Context in the Torah

This phrase often introduces mitzvot or pivotal instructions, reinforcing the divine origin of halacha. The Ohr HaChaim (Shemot 6:13) highlights that each instance of this phrasing serves as a reminder that the commandments are not of human origin but are the word of Hashem, given through Moshe Rabbeinu with precision and authority.

📚 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 command or message to Moshe (Moses). According to Rashi, this emphasizes the divine origin of the instructions that follow, showing they come from G-d Himself and not from Moshe's own thoughts.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'saying' after 'spoke'?
A: The double language ('spoke... saying') teaches that Moshe was commanded not only to hear the words himself but also to relay them to Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel). The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains that this phrasing indicates transmission of a message to others.
Q: How does this verse connect to the story of Mei Merivah (the Waters of Strife)?
A: This verse introduces G-d's command to Moshe about speaking to the rock to bring forth water (Numbers 20:8). The Rambam explains that Moshe's deviation from this command (by striking the rock instead) had serious consequences, teaching us the importance of following divine instructions precisely.
Q: Why is it significant that G-d spoke directly to Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) teaches that Moshe's unique level of prophecy - where G-d spoke to him 'face to face' (Deuteronomy 34:10) - set him apart from all other prophets. This direct communication shows Moshe's special role as the transmitter of the Torah.
Q: What can we learn today from this verse about communication with G-d?
A: While we no longer have prophecy like Moshe did, the Rambam (Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that we connect to G-d through Torah study and mitzvot. This verse reminds us of the importance of listening carefully to divine wisdom as transmitted through our tradition.