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Numbers 4:1 - Divine command to Moshe, Aharon

Numbers 4:1 - במדבר 4:1

Hebrew Text

וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה וְאֶל־אַהֲרֹן לֵאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe and to Aharon, saying,

Transliteration

Vayedaber Adonai el-Moshe ve'el-Aharon lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר יְהֹוָ֔ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה וְאֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֖ן לֵאמֹֽר׃
וַיְדַבֵּ֣ר יְהֹוָ֔ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה וְאֶֽל־אַהֲרֹ֖ן לֵאמֹֽר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Dual Address to Moshe and Aharon

The verse states, "And the Lord spoke to Moshe and to Aharon, saying," indicating a joint communication to both leaders. Rashi (Shemot 6:13) notes that this phrasing teaches that Aharon was equal to Moshe in receiving divine prophecy, though Moshe remained the primary prophet. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that while Moshe's prophecy was unique in its clarity, Aharon also merited direct communication from Hashem, emphasizing their shared leadership role.

The Significance of "לֵאמֹר" (Saying)

The term "לֵאמֹר" often appears in divine communications. The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 42) explains that this word implies a command to transmit the message further—Moshe and Aharon were to relay Hashem's words to Bnei Yisrael. The Ohr HaChaim (Bereishis 1:1) adds that "לֵאמֹר" underscores the eternal nature of Torah, as these words were not only for their generation but for all future generations as well.

Leadership Roles in Divine Communication

  • Moshe as the Primary Prophet: The Talmud (Zevachim 102a) highlights Moshe's unique role as the intermediary through whom the Torah was given, with Aharon serving as his supporter.
  • Aharon's Inclusion: The Midrash Tanchuma (Tzav 1) teaches that Aharon's inclusion here signifies his role in the Mishkan service, as many of the subsequent commandments relate to the priesthood.
  • Unity in Leadership: The Kli Yakar (Shemos 6:13) emphasizes that their joint address symbolizes the harmony required among Jewish leaders to properly guide the nation.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

The verse is cited in a discussion about the roles and communications of Moshe and Aharon in receiving divine commandments.
📖 Menachot 37b
Referenced in a debate about the nature of prophetic communication and the distinction between Moshe and other prophets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the verse mention both Moshe and Aharon when speaking to them?
A: According to Rashi, the Torah often mentions both Moshe and Aharon together to show their equal importance in conveying Hashem's messages to the Jewish people, even though Moshe was the primary prophet. This teaches us about the value of partnership in leadership.
Q: What is the significance of the phrase 'וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה' (And the Lord spoke)?
A: The Rambam explains that this phrasing indicates a direct and clear communication from Hashem to Moshe and Aharon. Unlike dreams or visions, this was a direct prophetic revelation, showing the high level of Moshe's prophecy.
Q: Why does the verse end with 'לֵאמֹר' (saying)?
A: The Midrash teaches that 'לֵאמֹר' implies that Moshe and Aharon were to repeat Hashem's words exactly to the Jewish people. This teaches us the importance of accurately transmitting Torah teachings without adding or subtracting.
Q: What lesson can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe and Aharon?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 105b) learns from here that Torah leaders must be addressed with respect and clarity. Just as Hashem spoke to Moshe and Aharon directly, we should communicate Torah teachings with proper reverence and clarity.
Q: Why is this verse important in the context of the Book of Numbers?
A: This verse introduces new commandments about the Levites' duties (as explained in the following verses). It shows the transition in the narrative to discussing the roles of different groups in the Mishkan, teaching us about the importance of each person's unique contribution to serving Hashem.