9

To listen to the prophet speaking in His Name

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Prophecy – נְבוּאָה

We are commanded to obey each of the Prophets, may they rest in peace, and to fulfill all their instructions. Even if his instructions contradict one or many of these commandments, [we are commanded to obey him] as long as his instructions are temporary. This does not apply, however, if he permanently adds or subtracts [from the commandments], as we explained in the Introduction to our Commentary on the Mishneh.

This mitzvah commands us to heed the words of a true prophet who conveys Hashem’s message. Just as Israel accepted Moshe as the faithful prophet, so too we are obligated to listen to later prophets who continue his mission. This command affirms Hashem’s ongoing guidance and ensures that His will is heard in every generation. Rejecting a true prophet is considered a grave sin, as it is equivalent to rejecting Hashem Himself.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Positive Commandment 172): To obey a prophet sent by Hashem, provided he fulfills the Torah’s criteria.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 516): Explains that prophets serve to guide Israel in Hashem’s ways, both spiritually and practically.
  • Talmud (Sanhedrin 89a): One who disregards the words of a true prophet is liable to death at the hands of Heaven.
(Source: Chabad.org)
:פָּרָשַׁת שׁוֹפְטִים - נָבִ֨יא מִקִּרְבְּךָ֤ מֵֽאַחֶ֨יךָ֙ כָּמֹ֔נִי יָקִ֥ים לְךָ֖ יְהֹוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֑יךָ אֵלָ֖יו תִּשְׁמָעֽוּן
Deuteronomy 18:15 - A prophet from among you, from your brothers, like me, the L-rd, your G-d will set up for you; you shall hearken to him.

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Prophecy - נְבוּאָה

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Associated with belief in and obedience to G‑d’s prophets, as well as reverence for their role in transmitting Divine truth.

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Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.

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Speech - דָּבָר

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Pertains to the power of speech—both positive and negative—including lashon hara, vows, and blessings.

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