From out of the emotional turmoil and accusations of disloyalty in the previous Parsha there emerges reconciliation, forgiveness and deeper acceptance in the covenantal promise.

 

From out of the emotional turmoil and accusations of disloyalty in the previous Parsha there emerges reconciliation, forgiveness and deeper acceptance in the covenantal promise. A difficult transition has taken place in the consciousness of the nation and they are now ready to commit and take personal and collective responsibility for the future.

We see in VaYakeyl, and especially in Exodus 36:5-7, how excited they are. Their overflowing generosity in providing for the needs of the Mishkan is awesome. So impressive that Moses has to plead with them to relax. We learn much from the narrative how much heartfelt wisdom and understanding went into each detail of the construction of the Tabernacle, the indwelling space of the Divine Presence. They got it!

Today we are also spiritually challenged by events around us. We question the moral compass of our leaders and of segments of our society. We witness countries that are willing to go to war and sacrifice tens of thousands of people lives because of political ambitions and disregard for the sanctity of life. The “sins of the parents” is taking its toll on the “third and fourth generations.” Why is it so hard to take responsibility? How can we recommit to the rainbow covenant and the covenant at Sinai?

The people in VaYakeyl have woken up. Our hassidic masters see the individual as the embodiment of the Mishkan, the true dwelling place of the Spirit. They begin to understand that the Mitzvot hold the Light of the Spirit.

I see many of us involved in giving service to others, in creating new organizations and communities, finding renewed interest in our heritage and in our practices. I also see many who are not there. The Torah reading observes how devastating it is for those who do not engage in doing mitzvot and in remembering our holidays.

It’s been very hard during this period of Covid to foster community. But it has given us the kind of solitude that we need in order to evolve socially and spiritually.

The promise of the Covenant is ours if we so choose.

For light and joy,

Orah V’Simkha!

Reb David