The name of the Parshah, “Vayakhel,” means “And he assembled” and is found in Exodus 35:1. After G-d gives directives to Moses about observing Shabbat and building the Mishkan (Tabernacle), Moses assembles the people of Israel and reveals the instructions. Moses asks that “whoever has a willing heart let them bring an offering to the L-rd.” (Exodus 35:5) The people are very generous in their donations of precious metals, dyes, textiles, animal skins, wood, olive oil, herbs and precious stones. The people’s giving is so plentiful that Moses has to tell them to stop giving.
This week’s portion also recaps much of the past three Torah portions of Terumah, Tetzaveh, and Ki Tisa in regards to detailing the Mishkan’s chief builders, the furnishings, the ark and veil, the table with showbread, the menorah, olive oil, the incense and anointing oil; the altar for burnt offerings; the hangings, foundation and posts, the courtyard; and the basin and its pedestal.
While much of this Torah portion has the same information as the last four portions, the focus begins differently… “And Moses assembled…”. Is there any significance?
Does this story harken back to an earlier occasion when people came together to build an impressive structure?
How does having “a willing heart to bring an offering to the L-rd” differentiate the two stories?
Come join us and let’s get into it!
RRabbi Scott is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
