share torah logo

Numbers 31:25 - Divine command to Moshe

Numbers 31:25 - במדבר 31:25

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying,

Transliteration

Vayomer Adonay el-Moshe lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃
וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהֹוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Introduction to Divine Communication

The phrase "וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe saying") appears frequently in the Torah, marking the transmission of divine commandments or messages. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) notes that this phrasing emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, underscoring Moshe's unique role as the primary prophet through whom the Torah was given.

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

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

  • Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 2:34) explains that it indicates Moshe was to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael, highlighting his role as an intermediary.
  • Ibn Ezra (Shemot 19:3) suggests that it implies a command to transmit the words precisely, without alteration.
  • The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) teaches that "לֵּאמֹר" signifies the eternal nature of Torah—these words were not only for that generation but for all future generations as well.

Moshe's Prophetic Distinction

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) contrasts Moshe's prophecy with that of other prophets. While other prophets received visions in dreams or allegories, Moshe heard Hashem's words "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth")—directly and with absolute clarity. This verse exemplifies that distinction, as it introduces a direct divine command without intermediary metaphors.

Theological Implications

The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) derives from such verses that Moshe's prophecy was unique in its clarity and authority, forming the foundation of Torah law. This phrasing reinforces the belief in Torah min HaShamayim (the divine origin of the Torah), as every commandment stems from Hashem's explicit instruction to Moshe.

📚 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 appears frequently in the Torah to indicate that Hashem is giving a new commandment or instruction to Moshe. Rashi explains that this wording emphasizes that Moshe transmitted Hashem's exact words to the Jewish people without adding or subtracting anything.
Q: Why does the Torah keep repeating 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) teaches that each time this phrase appears, it marks a pause between different topics or commandments. This shows that Moshe didn't receive the entire Torah at once, but in separate communications, giving him time to reflect on each teaching before receiving the next.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Rambam (Maimonides) explains in his introduction to Mishneh Torah that Moshe's prophecy was unique - Hashem spoke to him directly and clearly, unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or dreams. This teaches us about the special level of Moshe's connection to Hashem.