On the first anniversary of the Exodus, the children of Israel are instructed to bring the Pesach offering in its appointed time (9:2). In the next passuk (verse), the Torah instructs, “you [Moshe]” shall make it [the Pesach offering] in its appointed time” (9:3). It seems reasonable that stating this law once would be sufficient. Why then would the Torah repeat itself in the very next sentence? And why mention Moshe, an individual who will ultimately perish, in a lasting law?
Rav S. R. Hirsch suggests that the first instruction is for future generations, while the second is meant to address Moshe directly as a means to acknowledge the immortality of the community he created. This honorable mention highlights the critical concept of community that Moshe initiated. Just as Moshe created a lasting community that will honor him eternally, we too have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in our respective communities that will forever endure.
