The First Mitzvah
Question
Can you please explain why, as I have learned in the past, that there are, apparently, TWO First Mitzvah’s……I recall learning that Abraham was told that “Circumcision” was the First Mitzvah and then I learned that The first mitzvah given to the Jewish people before they even left Egypt was to sanctify the new moon and keep a calendar” Can you tell me what is correct…..are their TWO First Mitzvah’s and, if so, what is the meaning of this?
Answers
The first Mitzvah that was given to Abraham with a command that it be passed on throughout the generations was Circumcision. However, the very first Mitzvah that was given to the Jewish Nation collectively was Sanctifying the New Moon and that is why it is regarded as the first Mitzvah.
Best wishes from the AskTheRabbi.org Team