The Torah’s message this week could be summarized with the saying, “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” Parashat Terumah, or “gift” (Exodus 25:1-27:19) sets down instructions for building the portable synagogue/temple known as the Tabernacle. The reading opens with a list of all the beautiful materials that the Israelites are asked to donate to the making of the Tabernacle: Gold, silver and bronze metals; blue, crimson and purple yarns; top-quality linen fabrics; leathers; and fine lumber.

 

Their description paints a visual picture of opulence that stands out in the story of the wilderness trek of a newly freed people headed through arid country toward their promised land.

 

To understand the meaning of this description, it can help to go back a few chapters to the Israelites’ song of jubilation after crossing the Sea of Reeds, in which they say, “This is my God, the One whom I will extol.” (Exodus 15:2). The Talmud takes this as a proof text for the need to bring beauty into our worship of God and the way we carry out mitzvot. We at Nafshenu are like the ancient Israelites. We are a wandering community, without a fixed location. How can we bring beauty into our worship without plush seats and stained glass windows? I hope to see you tonight - click here to register and receive the Zoom link.

 

- Reb Dovid