Numbers 5:11 - Suspicion tests marital faithfulness.

Numbers 5:11 - במדבר 5:11

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׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Divine Communication to Moshe

The phrase "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) explains that this expression signifies a clear and direct communication from Hashem to Moshe, emphasizing the unique prophetic level of Moshe Rabbeinu, who received the Torah with unparalleled clarity (aspaklaria ha-me'ira).

The Significance of "Leimor"

The word "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") indicates that Moshe was commanded to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (Bereishit 1:1) notes that this term underscores Moshe's role as an intermediary, faithfully transmitting Hashem's words without alteration. The Talmud (Shabbat 87a) further teaches that Moshe's humility and precision in conveying divine instruction set the standard for all future prophets.

Contrast with Other Prophetic Revelations

Unlike other prophets who received visions or allegories (e.g., through dreams or metaphors), Moshe's communication was direct and unambiguous. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe alone experienced prophecy "face to face" (Bamidbar 12:8), a distinction that highlights the unparalleled nature of Torah revelation at Har Sinai.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) compares Moshe to a faithful scribe who records every word of the king exactly as spoken, emphasizing the precision of Torah transmission.
  • Another teaching (Tanchuma Vaera 3) suggests that each instance of divine speech reinforced Moshe's leadership role, ensuring Bnei Yisrael recognized his authority as Hashem's chosen emissary.

📚 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 Rabbeinu (Moses our teacher). According to Rashi, this wording emphasizes that Moshe transmitted Hashem's words exactly as he received them, without adding or omitting anything.
Q: Why does the Torah keep repeating 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The Rambam explains in Moreh Nevuchim that each repetition shows a new communication from Hashem. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 99a) teaches that this repetition also honors Moshe by constantly reaffirming his unique role as the transmitter of Torah.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Sifrei) notes that this teaches the importance of clear communication in transmitting Torah. Just as Hashem spoke to Moshe clearly, we must teach Torah accurately to others. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) derives from this that prophecy only comes to someone of Moshe's supreme wisdom and character.