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Numbers 4:17 - Divine command to Moshe, Aharon

Numbers 4:17 - במדבר 4:17

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 that Hashem spoke to both Moshe and Aharon together. Rashi (Shemot 6:13) explains that this teaches us that Moshe and Aharon were equally beloved in the eyes of Hashem, despite Moshe being the primary prophet. The Ramban (Bamidbar 2:1) adds that Aharon's inclusion here demonstrates the importance of unity among leaders in Klal Yisrael.

The Significance of "Leimor"

The word "leimor" ("saying") appears frequently in Torah when Hashem communicates with Moshe. The Mechilta (Bo 1) explains this term indicates that Moshe was to repeat the message exactly as received to Bnei Yisrael. The Sforno notes this emphasizes the precision required in transmitting divine commandments.

Leadership Dynamics

  • Moshe as Primary Prophet: The Ibn Ezra observes that while both were addressed, Moshe is usually mentioned first, maintaining his position as the primary conduit of prophecy.
  • Aharon's Role: The Kli Yakar highlights Aharon's unique contribution as the kohen gadol, showing that different leadership roles can coexist in divine service.
  • Brotherly Unity: The Midrash Tanchuma (Tzav 12) teaches this joint address reflects the special harmony between these brothers, serving as a model for interpersonal relationships.

Grammatical Insights

Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch notes the plural verb form "vayedaber" (spoke) with two objects (Moshe and Aharon) demonstrates that Hashem's word came to them simultaneously, not sequentially. This reflects the unity of purpose in their divine mission.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Zevachim 102a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the roles of Moshe and Aharon in receiving divine commandments.
📖 Menachot 45a
Cited in a debate about the authority and transmission of laws from God to Moshe and Aharon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the verse mention both Moshe and Aharon together?
A: According to Rashi, this shows that both Moshe and Aharon were equally important in transmitting Hashem's words to Bnei Yisrael. The Torah often mentions them together to emphasize their shared leadership role.
Q: What is the significance of the phrase 'And the Lord spoke' in this verse?
A: The Rambam explains that this phrasing indicates a direct and clear communication from Hashem to Moshe and Aharon. It teaches us that prophecy in Judaism comes through clear divine speech, not vague hints or interpretations.
Q: Why does the verse end with the word 'saying' (לֵאמֹר)?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) explains that the word 'saying' indicates that Moshe and Aharon were commanded to repeat these words to others - in this case, to the Kohanim and Levi'im about their duties in the Mishkan.
Q: How does this verse relate to leadership in Judaism?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) teaches that this verse shows the ideal of shared leadership in Judaism. Moshe represented Torah wisdom while Aharon represented the priestly service, demonstrating that different types of leaders must work together.
Q: Why is this verse important in the context of the Book of Numbers?
A: As explained by traditional commentators, this verse introduces important instructions about the Mishkan's transportation. It's significant because it shows how even practical details of the Mishkan's service came through direct divine command to both Moshe and Aharon.