Vayakel Pekudei 2023

1These Parshiyot always make me wonder as to why the Chumash repeats the names of the holy vessels and of the Kohen’s special garments and of the Mishkan’s structural components. Why not just write that everything that was commanded to Moshe and to Bnei Yisrael to do was done? And in fact it does say that exactly:

2“All that God had commanded Moshe to do was done by Bnei Yisrael, all the work. “Avodah” And Moshe saw all the effort “Melacha” and behold they did it as God had commanded, so was it done. And Moshe blessed them.” (Ex 39 42-43)

3Why all the repetition? There are other examples of repetition in the Chumash; Eliezer in the house of Lavan, the gifts of the tribal leaders, the entire narrative at the beginning of the book of Devarim, and others. There must be a purpose or a message for what appears to be merely repetition.

4In our particular Parshiyot the repetition is designed to make the reader notice each specific detail and to attempt to understand its purpose and how each component fits into the overall message of the Mishkan.

5As we review all the Mishkan details we are struck by its simplicity. The Mishkan models the basic elements for a home designed, built, and occupied by a true servant of God. The house has a table with, hopefully, food on the table “Tamid” always. The basic house has light either through fixtures or windows. It has an oven for roasting or cooking. It has a washing station. It has space exterior (yard) and interior with an emphasis on privacy. It has at its center a guide for living in this house, for maximum utility. The one vessel the remains mysterious is of course the golden altar. Burning of the spices creates a sweet smell that represents the peace and happiness within the house and within the greater community.

6We are reminded by these Parshiyot that life can be joyous and meaningful in its simplicity. Our homes can be models of God’s house. If we merit, He will dwell in our house and in our hearts, fulfilling the promise/requirement of “Make for me a Mishkan and I will dwell in your midst” (Ex 25:8)

7Shabbat Shalom