Parsha Points to Ponder

Parsha Points to Ponder

1) Why does the Torah first refer to the Tabernacle as the MIKDASH (25:8) and then one verse later refer to it as the MISHKAN?
2) Why does the Torah use the word V’ASITA, AND YOU SHALL MAKE, in the singular regarding all the vessels of the Tabernacle but then switches to V’ASU, in the plural, regarding the construction of the ARON, the holy Ark (25:10)?
3) Why does the Torah say V’ET HAMISHKAN TAASEH, AND THE SANCTUARY YOU SHALL MAKE (26:1) and not V’ASITA MISHKAN, AND YOU SHALL MAKE A SANCTUARY, as it commands regarding all the vessels of the Mishkan?

Parsha Points to Ponder by Rabbi Dov Lipman, MK - Rabbi Lipman is Chaver Knesset (Yesh Atid), an educator, author - .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Ponder the questions first, then see below

Suggested answers

1) The Ohr HaChayim explains that the first verse refers to the commandment which applies at all times to build a holy place and uses the word MIKDASH since it includes the command to build the Bet HaMikdash, as well. The next verse begins with the specifics of the Tabernacle in the desert which is called the MISHKAN, the sanctuary.
2) Daat Zekainim MiBaalei HaTos’fot answer that since Torah study is a mitzva which all Jews must and can participate in, all Jews must participate in the construction of the Ark which will house the Torah and represents Torah study. Hence, the use of the plural V’ASU.
3) The Kli Yakar teaches that the word MISHKAN refers to G-D dwelling in this building, so it could not say YOU SHALL MAKE THE MISHKAN, which implies that we bring G-D’s presence to the building. The change in language enables the YOU SHALL MAKE to connect to the details of the construction which follow and not on G-D’S dwelling there.

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