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 direct commandment or instruction to Moshe. 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 repeat 'saying' after 'And the Lord spoke to Moshe'?
A: The double language of 'spoke... saying' teaches us that Moshe was commanded to repeat these words to the Jewish people (Talmud Yoma 4b). The word 'saying' implies that the message should be conveyed to others, not kept private.
Q: How is this introduction different from other times the Torah says 'Hashem spoke to Moshe'?
A: While this phrase appears often, our Sages teach that each instance is unique. Sometimes it introduces new laws (like here about cities of refuge), other times it continues previous topics. The context always determines the specific purpose (see Ramban on this verse).
Q: What can we learn from how Hashem communicated with Moshe?
A: This teaches us about prophecy - that Moshe received clear, direct communication from Hashem, unlike other prophets who received messages through visions or dreams (Rambam, Yesodei HaTorah 7:6). It also shows Moshe's unique level of prophecy.
Q: Why is it important that the Torah specifies it was Hashem speaking to Moshe?
A: This establishes the divine origin of the commandments. As the Talmud states (Sanhedrin 99a), one who says Moshe added anything on his own denies a fundamental Torah principle. The wording reminds us these are Hashem's exact words.
The Divine Communication to Moshe
The phrase "וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵּאמֹר" ("And the Lord spoke to Moshe, saying") appears frequently in the Torah, introducing divine commandments and revelations. Rashi (on Shemot 6:2) notes that this phrasing emphasizes the direct and clear communication between Hashem and Moshe, distinguishing it from other forms of prophecy, which may be conveyed through visions or allegories.
The Significance of "לֵּאמֹר" (Saying)
The term "לֵּאמֹר" ("saying") is interpreted by the Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar 1:1) as an instruction for Moshe to transmit the divine words exactly as received, without adding or omitting anything. Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:6) elaborates that Moshe's prophecy was unique in its clarity and precision, serving as the foundation for all subsequent Torah transmission.
Contextual Insights from the Talmud
Kabbalistic Perspective
The Zohar (Shemos 21a) interprets this verse as reflecting the continuous flow of divine wisdom (chochmah) from the highest spiritual realms into Moshe's consciousness. The phrasing "וַיְדַבֵּר" ("and He spoke") signifies an active, ongoing relationship, not a one-time event.