בס”ד
A THOUGHT ABOUT PARSHAT VAYAKHEL 5785
A SPIRITUAL MEANING FOR EVERYONE
In Exodus 35:5 we are told:
| 5 Take ye from among you an offering unto the L-RD, whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, the L-RD’S offering: gold, and silver, and brass; | ה קְחוּ מֵאִתְּכֶם תְּרוּמָה, לַד’, כֹּל נְדִיב לִבּוֹ, יְבִיאֶהָ אֵת תְּרוּמַת ד’: זָהָב וָכֶסֶף, וּנְחֹשֶׁת |
This verse serves as a foundation for the deeper spiritual lessons we can draw from the construction of the Tabernacle. What does the construction of the Tabernacle have to do with our spirituality today? How can the lessons from the Bible help us create space for G-d in our lives and in the world around us? Let’s explore the deep significance of the Tabernacle and discover how its lessons can enrich our daily lives.
The Spiritual Significance of the Tabernacle
The Bible provides a detailed account of the construction of the Tabernacle. What is often overlooked is that the contributions for the Tabernacle were not only physical but also deeply spiritual. The contributions of the people included not only materials but also an invisible, spiritual element, known as “תרומת השם” (the contribution of G-d). This element was crucial for bringing the various materials together and creating a holy space.
The Tabernacle was not just a building; it was a symbol of G-d’s presence on earth. Each person’s contribution was important, not only because of the physical materials, but also because of the intention behind their gift. The term “נדיב לב” refers to those whose hearts were willing to give with enthusiasm and sincere intent (Or haChaim, Rashi). It was the willingness of the heart that made the contribution sacred.
Intention and Motivation: What Makes a Gift Valuable?
The Sages also point out the significance of the words “קחו” (take) and “יביאה” (bring). These words indicate that the giver was not just bringing physical materials, but that these gifts had to be spiritually elevated. The intention behind the gift is just as important as the gift itself. By having the right motivation, the giver connects their gift to the will of G-d. This elevates the gift to a higher, holy level, allowing it to merge with G-d’s contribution to the Tabernacle (Ibn Ezra, Malbim).
The Lesson of the Tabernacle for Today
The Lubavitscher Rebbe explains that the contribution to the construction of the Tabernacle had a deeper spiritual meaning than simply giving materials. It was a way to offer a piece of oneself to G-d. By contributing, people were not just giving physical materials; they were also offering their desire for G-d’s presence to dwell permanently among them. The Tabernacle became a symbol of this permanent Divine presence.
This principle applies not only to the Tabernacle but also to observing G-d’s commandments in our daily lives. The level of enthusiasm and dedication we invest in fulfilling G-d’s commandments determines the degree of divine revelation we experience. By aligning our actions with G-d’s will, we can make His presence more palpable in our lives (The Rebbe1).
The Important Lesson for Noahides
This is not just important for Jews, but also for Noahides who observe the seven Noahide commandments. The spiritual value of observing these commandments is equally dependent on the intention and commitment we invest in them. The community of Noahides will grow and thrive as we show more enthusiasm and dedication in observing these commandments. Everyone contributes in their own way, and what one person does is no more or less important than what another does, as long as we do it with a sincere heart.
Observing these commandments is not just a physical act but also a spiritual commitment. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 59b) teaches that a Noahide who studies the parts of the Torah that apply to them is considered equal to a High Priest who enters the Holy of Holies. This highlights the immense value of not only following these commandments but also learning and understanding them. Through this dedication, Noahides—just like the Israelites who contributed to the building of the Tabernacle—create a sacred space for G-d’s presence in their lives and in the world.
Together, Creating a Dwelling Place for G-d
Just like with the construction of the Tabernacle, where everyone’s contributions were equally valuable, we can create a space for G-d to dwell permanently among us with our contributions to the world. Let us view the Tabernacle as an example of how G-d can dwell among His people. Let it inspire us to let Him reside in our hearts and make the entire world a place where He can live.
The invitation is open: let us, together—Jews and non-Jews—invest in creating a dwelling place for G-d, both in our communities and in the world around us.
By Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Moshe Bernstein for his feedback
Sources
- Daily Wisdom: Inspiring insights on the Torah portion from the Lubavitscher Rebbe. Volume 3 p.174 ↩︎
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