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Numbers 31:1 - Divine command for Midian's judgment

Numbers 31:1 - במדבר 31:1

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 as an introduction to divine commandments. 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 be less direct.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Sages in multiple ways:

  • Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:34): Suggests it indicates that Moshe was to transmit the message to Bnei Yisrael, highlighting his role as the intermediary.
  • Midrash Tanchuma (Vayikra 1): Teaches that "לֵּאמֹר" implies Moshe was to repeat the words exactly as he received them, without alteration.

Moshe's Unique Prophetic Level

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was unique—"וַיְדַבֵּר" ("spoke") denotes clarity, as he received divine communication "face to face" (Bamidbar 12:8). Unlike other prophets who received visions or dreams, Moshe heard Hashem's words directly.

Theological Implications

The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) derives from this verse the principle that Moshe's prophecy was the foundation of Torah transmission. The phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה" affirms the divine origin of the commandments, a cornerstone of Jewish belief.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean that 'the Lord spoke to Moshe saying'?
A: This phrase appears frequently in the Torah to introduce divine commandments or instructions given to Moshe (Moses). According to Rashi, this emphasizes that Moshe received direct communication from Hashem (God) to transmit to the Jewish people. It shows Moshe's unique role as the greatest prophet.
Q: Why does the Torah repeat 'spoke... saying' instead of just 'said'?
A: The double language of 'vayedaber... lemor' teaches us that Moshe was commanded to repeat God's words exactly to the people. The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains this phrasing indicates Moshe was to transmit the message clearly to the leaders and the entire nation.
Q: How is this introduction different from other times God speaks to Moshe?
A: While this is a common introduction, the Rambam notes that sometimes God speaks to Moshe through dreams or visions, but here it implies clear, direct speech. The specific wording indicates Moshe was fully awake and comprehending when receiving this communication.
Q: What can we learn from how God communicates with Moshe?
A: The Midrash teaches that God's direct speech to Moshe demonstrates the importance of clear transmission of Torah. Just as Moshe received and relayed God's words faithfully, we must strive to learn and teach Torah accurately without adding or subtracting from its divine message.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah tells us God spoke to Moshe?
A: This establishes the divine origin of the commandments. As the Rambam writes in his principles of faith, we believe Moshe's prophecy was unique and that the Torah comes directly from God. This phrase reminds us the Torah's authority comes from its divine source.