In Biblical Hebrew, direct speech is introduced through a structured formula that typically begins with a verb of speech—most often אָמַר (“to say”)—in the wayyiqtol form (e.g., וַיֹּאמֶר, “and he said”), followed by the subject and sometimes the particle לֵאמֹר (“saying”) to formally mark the start of the quotation. This construction serves as a narrative hinge, shifting from the narrator’s voice to the speaker’s exact words. The speech is often directed using prepositions like אֶל or לְ (e.g., וַיֹּאמֶר אֶל־הָעָם, “and he said to the people”). While אָמַר is the most common verb, others like דִּבֵּר (“to speak”), צִוָּה (“to command”), and שָׁאַל (“to ask”) are also used, each adding nuance to the speech act. In poetic or dramatic contexts, לֵאמֹר may be omitted, and quotations may begin abruptly. Repetition of the speech formula or nested quotations can heighten dramatic effect or emphasize authority. More than a grammatical device, this formula signals theological weight, often marking divine revelation, covenantal declarations, or pivotal narrative moments. Thus, “And he said…” in Hebrew is not merely a transition—it is an invitation into the voice and presence of the speaker, often God Himself.
The Framing of Quoted Dialogue
Direct speech plays a foundational role in Biblical Hebrew narrative and legal texts. It provides a vivid way to report commands, dialogue, divine decrees, and internal thoughts. The language uses a characteristic syntactic and lexical structure to introduce direct speech, most notably by employing a verb of speech such as אָמַר (“to say”) or דִּבֵּר (“to speak”), typically followed by the particle לֵאמֹר. These components create a structured gateway from the narrator’s voice into the speaker’s quoted words.
The Core Formula for Introducing Direct Speech
1. Verb of Speech (Past Narrative Form)
The vast majority of direct speech segments are introduced with the verb אָמַר in the wayyiqtol form — that is, prefixed with וַ and typically translated as “and he said.”
- וַיֹּאמֶר מֹשֶׁה — “And Moshe said…”
- וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה — “And YHWH said…”
This formula serves as a narrative pivot, transitioning into the speaker’s words.
2. The Particle לֵאמֹר
After the speech verb, the particle לֵאמֹר (“to say”) often appears to formally introduce the quoted content. This marker is unique to direct discourse and is rarely used in indirect speech.
- וַיֹּאמֶר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵאמֹר — “And YHWH said to Moshe, saying…”
The phrase לֵאמֹר is not part of the quote itself but signals the start of it.
Word Order and Syntactic Structure
1. Speech Verb + Subject
The default word order in introductory formulas is:
וַיֹּאמֶר + Subject + Optional Object + לֵאמֹר
Examples:
- וַיֹּאמֶר מֹשֶׁה אֶל־הָעָם לֵאמֹר — “And Moshe said to the people, saying…”
- וַיֹּאמֶר יוֹסֵף אֶל־אֶחָיו — “And Yosef said to his brothers…”
2. With Prepositional Object
Direct speech is often addressed to someone using אֶל or לְ:
- וַיֹּאמֶר אֶל־אָבִיו — “And he said to his father…”
- וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה לֵאמֹר — “And YHWH spoke to Moshe, saying…”
Alternative Verbs of Speech
Though אָמַר is the most common, several other verbs can introduce direct speech with slightly different emphases:
| Verb | Meaning | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| אָמַר | “to say” | General speech, divine and human |
| דִּבֵּר | “to speak” | Formal communication, often divine |
| צִוָּה | “to command” | Issuing legal or divine instructions |
| שָׁאַל | “to ask” | Questions and petitions |
Each of these can be followed by a quoted clause, with or without לֵאמֹר depending on the context.
Special Forms in Dialogue and Narrative
1. Repetition for Dramatic Effect
Repeated speech formulas emphasize transitions or highlight authority:
- וַיֹּאמֶר… וַיֹּאמֶר — “And he said… and he said…” (used in divine-human dialogues)
2. Quotations Within Quotations
When one character reports another’s direct speech, the inner quote often follows the same formula but may omit לֵאמֹר.
Example:
- וַיֹּאמֶר יַעֲקֹב… כֹּה אָמַר עֵשָׂו — “And Yaʿaqov said… ‘Thus said ʿEsav…’”
3. Abrupt Quotation Without לֵאמֹר
Especially in poetry or dramatic speech, the speaker’s words follow immediately after the introductory verb:
- וַיֹּאמֶר: שִׁמְעוּ נָא דְּבָרִי — “And he said: ‘Hear now my words’”
Discourse and Theological Implications
Direct speech in the Hebrew Bible is more than a grammatical device — it signifies:
- Authenticity: Verbatim words of God, prophets, or key figures
- Authority: Especially when spoken by YHWH or through a prophet
- Drama: Speech often marks pivotal plot turns or covenantal moments
The introductory formula thus serves as both a literary cue and theological anchor.
From Quote to Revelation
The Hebrew formula for direct speech — “And X said…” — may seem formulaic, but it is rich with narrative and theological significance. Each instance signals a shift from narration to revelation, from event to utterance. Whether from a prophet, king, or YHWH Himself, the use of וַיֹּאמֶר + לֵאמֹר invites the reader into the living voice of the biblical drama.
