The Formulaic Structure of Divine Speech Introductions in Numbers 6:1

Introduction to Numbers 6:1

Numbers 6:1 introduces a new section of divine instruction, following the common Torah formula used to introduce commands, laws, and covenantal obligations. This formula, often structured as “And YHWH spoke to Moses, saying”, appears frequently in the Pentateuch and serves as a key literary and grammatical marker.

The verse consists of:

1. The standard introductory formula (וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה, “And YHWH spoke to Moses”).
2. The infinitive construct לֵאמֹֽר (“saying“), which introduces direct speech.

This study will analyze the morphology and syntactic function of this formula, its significance in legal and narrative contexts, and its theological implications in divine revelation.

וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃

Analysis of Key Words/Phrases

1. וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר (vay’dabber)
   • Root: דָּבַר (“to speak”)
   • Form: Piel imperfect 3rd masculine singular with vav-consecutive
   • Translation: “And [He] spoke”
   • Function: Marks the beginning of divine speech, emphasizing formal instruction or command.
2. יְהוָ֖ה (YHWH)
   • Root: Divine Name (יְהוָה)
   • Translation: “YHWH”
   • Function: Identifies the speaker, reinforcing divine authority.
3. אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה (el-Mosheh)
   • Root: מֹשֶׁה (“Moses”)
   • Form: Prepositional phrase אֶל + proper noun
   • Translation: “To Moses”
   • Function: Identifies the recipient of divine revelation.
4. לֵאמֹֽר (lemor)
   • Root: אָמַר (“to say”)
   • Form: Infinitive construct
   • Translation: “Saying”
   • Function: Introduces direct speech, ensuring clarity in divine communication.

Explanation of Grammatical Function

The Function of וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר (“And He Spoke”) in Legal Speech

Piel stem emphasizes authoritative speech, often used for commands rather than mere narration.

Common in legal contexts, distinguishing divine instruction from narrative speech (e.g., וַיֹּ֣אמֶר, “and He said”).

The Role of לֵאמֹֽר (“Saying”) in Direct Speech

Standard introductory marker for reported speech.

Ensures that the divine command is introduced clearly, linking the speech to its recipient.

The Prepositional Structure אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה (“To Moses”) as a Mediatorial Formula

Indicates Moses’ role as mediator of divine revelation.

Used consistently throughout Torah legal instructions (e.g., Leviticus 1:1, “And YHWH called to Moses”).

Theological Implications of Divine Speech Formulas

1. Authority and Divine CommandThe Piel verb “spoke” (וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר) implies authoritative communication, reinforcing that laws originate from YHWH.
2. The Role of Moses as MediatorThe phrase “to Moses” shows that divine instruction is revealed through a chosen leader.
3. Structural Marker for Legal and Covenantal TextsThe formula functions as a literary transition, introducing a new section of divine law.

The Role of Divine Speech Formulas in Hebrew Legal Texts

Numbers 6:1 demonstrates the standardized introduction of divine commands, where the verb וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר marks formal revelation. The use of לֵאמֹֽר ensures clarity in divine instruction, reinforcing Moses’ role as the mediator of God’s law.

Thus, this verse serves as both a grammatical model of Hebrew legal formulas and a theological foundation for the transmission of divine law.