Akiva says — What is the intent of "And these are the judgments"

Mekhilta DeRabbi Yishmael Mekhilta Tractate Nezikin 1:2

Curated by The Jewish Mythology Team · Published January 21, 2025

R. Akiva says: What is the intent of "And these are the judgments"? From (Leviticus 1:2) "Speak to the children of Israel and say to them," I would think, only once. Whence do I derive that it is to be repeated two, three, and four times until it is assimilated? From (Devarim 31:19) "and teach it to the children of Israel." I might think that it is to be taught but not repeated. It is, therefore, written (Ibid.) "Place it in their mouths." I might think that it is to be repeated (even) if it is not understood. It is, therefore, written "And these are the judgments." Set them out before them as a set table, as it is written (Ibid. 4:35) "You have been shown to know, etc."

Themes

Divine justice Holy Land Judgment Tribes Levi

Biblical References

Leviticus 1:2

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