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Numbers 7:4 - Divine command to Moshe.

Numbers 7:4 - במדבר 7:4

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר׃

English Translation

And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying,

Transliteration

Vayomer Adonai el-Moshe lemor.

Hebrew Leining Text

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

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Divine Communication to Moshe

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 and teachings. Rashi (Shemot 6:2) notes that this phrasing emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing it from prophetic revelations to other nevi'im (prophets), which might come through dreams or visions (Bamidbar 12:6-8).

The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר"

The word "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 28:6) as an instruction for Moshe to relay the message to Bnei Yisrael. Ramban (Shemot 25:1) expands on this, explaining that Moshe's role as an intermediary required him to transmit Hashem's words precisely, without alteration. This underscores the principle of שְׁמִירַת הַתּוֹרָה (guarding the Torah's integrity) in Jewish tradition.

Moshe's Unique Prophetic Stature

The Talmud (Yevamot 49b) teaches that Moshe's prophecy was unparalleled, as he communicated with Hashem "פֶּה אֶל פֶּה" ("mouth to mouth")—a level of clarity and intimacy not granted to other prophets. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecies were received while fully conscious, without symbolic imagery, setting the standard for the authenticity of Torah she'B'al Peh (Oral Torah).

  • Rashi: Highlights the immediacy and clarity of Hashem's communication with Moshe.
  • Midrash: Emphasizes Moshe's role as a faithful transmitter to Klal Yisrael.
  • Rambam: Explains the theological foundation for Moshe's unique prophetic authority.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the Torah often say 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying'?
A: This phrase appears frequently in the Torah to emphasize that Moshe received direct communication from Hashem. Rashi explains that this wording shows the importance of Moshe's role as the faithful transmitter of Hashem's commandments to the Jewish people.
Q: What is the significance of the double language 'saying' (לאמר) in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 4b) teaches that the word 'לאמר' (saying) indicates that Moshe was instructed to repeat these words to others - in this case, to the leaders of Israel. This teaches us about the chain of transmission in Torah learning.
Q: How does this verse connect to the context of Numbers chapter 7?
A: This introduction leads into the instructions about the offerings brought by the tribal leaders for the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The Ramban explains that this shows how all details of the Mishkan service came through direct divine command to Moshe.
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem spoke to Moshe?
A: The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 28:6) teaches that Hashem's communication with Moshe was clear and direct, showing the special relationship between them. This teaches us the importance of clear communication when transmitting Torah values.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah specifies it was Hashem speaking to Moshe?
A: The Rambam (Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) explains that this establishes the divine origin of the commandments. Unlike false prophets, Moshe's prophecy came directly from Hashem, which is why the Torah constantly reiterates this relationship.