Why Israel Became God's People Only at Sinai

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Vaera 1:1

Curated by Arthur·Translated by Maggid (Beta)·

(Exodus 6:2-3:) "And God spoke unto Moses and said unto him: I am the LORD, and I appeared unto Abraham…." This is what Scripture says (Psalms 50:7): "Hearken, O My people, and I will speak; O Israel, and I will testify against you…." Rabbi Yose son of Rabbi Simon said: Before you stood at Mount Sinai and received My Torah, you were called Israel, just as the nations of the world are called Sabteca and Raamah. But when you stood at Mount Sinai and received My Torah, you were called "My people," as it is said (Psalms 50:7): "Hearken, O My people, and I will speak."

Themes

CovenantTorah

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