This week’s parshah, Pekudei, serves as a comprehensive summary of the contributions to the Sanctuary. It provides detailed accounts of two significant aspects: 1) the crafting of the priestly garments, and 2) the assembly of the Mishkan (Sanctuary). We will focus on the assembly of the Mishkan.
“And they completed the Mishkan and brought it to Moshe…” Why didn’t the Jews assemble the Sanctuary themselves? As Rashi explains (v.39:32), no individual was able to lift the panels, so they brought their work to Moshe. Could Moshe himself lift the panels? HaShem told Moshe, “You – act as if you are lifting them. I will see to it that everything gets put in its rightful place.”
As our Sages teach, the Jews felt rejected. They wanted forgiveness for the golden calf and thought that the Mishkan would bear witness to their forgiveness. But they couldn’t assemble it, so they brought the components to Moshe. Only Moshe could have erected the Mishkan. Why? Because he was their leader and the tzaddik who knows where each unit belongs.
This is all part of HaShem’s master plan. He created us, each individual, with our own unique qualities. But to develop those qualities, we need the guidance of Moshe, the tzaddik (see Likutey Moharan I, 2:6). Why is this? Because the tzaddik has ascended to the highest levels possible, and he has within him the God-given gifts to be able to communicate between HaShem and the people. HaShem tells him, “You act…I will see that everything fits.” But the tzaddik must convey HaShem’s love to the people. How? By doing what he can, by “…lifting them.”
This teaches us that we must do what we can. But can I complete every part of my mission? Probably not. I require Moshe’s help, Moshe’s guidance. If I attach myself to the tzaddik, by studying his teachings and following his advice, I am bound to the tzaddik. Then Moshe will be able to assemble and erect my Mishkan, my sanctuary and connection to HaShem.
Have a great Shabbos.
