What We Build & Why It Matters (Parshat Vayakhel-Pekudei)
Do we build structures that honor our values and serve the greater good, or do we succumb to pride and self-interest?
Week 22: Exodus 35:1 - 40:38
Haftarah Portion: I Kings 7:40 - 7:50, 7:13 - 7:26
Summary: The construction of the Tabernacle and the making of the priestly garments are emphasized. The Haftarah describes the building of Solomon's Temple and its furnishings, emphasizing the importance of reverence and diligence in worship.
Thematic Connection: Construction and Reverence
By Rabbi Patrick Beaulier
…Let all among you who are skilled come
and make all that GOD has commanded.
(Exodus 35:10)
Parshat Vayakhel-Pekudei: where we finally get to have the Temple, and not just the instructions.
I cannot stress the value of this space enough. It is not just a sacred space where the Israelites worshipped. It’s like the spiritual battery of the Jewish people, the USB port connecting the Jewish people to God, the…well…you get it. No more technology metaphors needed.
But as we explore the significance of what we build, we're reminded of another ancient story, the Tower of Babel. This is another building meant to be metaphysical. But instead of a story of God, we get a story of hubris.
Historically, the largest structures built by societies reflect their highest values. From temples and churches to government buildings, and now to corporations, what we construct speaks volumes about our priorities. The time, talent and treasure that it takes to create large, purposeful things shows you the intent of each creator. In contrast to the sacredness of the Temple, the Tower of Babel represents human arrogance and rebellion against divinity.
Do we build structures that honor our values and serve the greater good, or do we succumb to pride and self-interest?
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Darshan Yeshiva to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.