Terumah: The Proper Outlook

Lessons from the Dimensions of the Mishkan

This week, we begin the detailed description of the Mishkan: the sacred vessels, the Ark, the Table, and the Menorah; the Altar, the tapestries, and the panels. This was to be Hashem’s dwelling place in this world, as it were, among the Jewish People. We recognize that deep mysteries must be contained within these designs—secrets we cannot possibly fathom.

Our Sages tell us that even Moshe Rabbeinu struggled to understand some of the intricate details. The Menorah, for instance, was so complex that it ultimately had to be formed by Hashem Himself.

While Hashem’s true intent behind every detail remains beyond our grasp, we can still seek "lesson gems" and glean what we can from these beautiful parshiyos. The Klei Yakar offers a particularly wonderful insight regarding the three sacred vessels that featured "crowns"—ornate gold trimmings that rose above the top of the vessel: the Aron (Ark), the Shulchan (Table), and the Mizbe’ach (Golden Altar).

The Aron represents the Crown of Torah, which every individual can strive to merit. The Shulchan represents the Crown of Royalty and material success. Finally, the Mizbe’ach represents the Crown of Kehuna (Priesthood), the unique merit of serving Hashem.

The Klei Yakar points out a fascinating distinction in their measurements. The dimensions of the Aron consist entirely of "halves"—incomplete units of measure: two and a half amos long, one and a half wide, and one and a half tall. The Shulchan features a mix of whole and half numbers: two amos long, one amah wide, and one and a half amos tall. The Mizbe’ach, however, consists only of complete, whole numbers.

The Klei Yakar explains: To acquire Torah, we must view ourselves as incomplete. We must feel that we only know "half" of what we should, always striving to understand more deeply. The Shulchan represents material success. In this realm, we should strive to view ourselves as complete—content with what we have. Rather than looking at those who have more, we should realize there are those who have less. Furthermore, even within what we do possess, we should practice restraint and avoid over-indulgence, as hinted at by the inclusion of a half-measure.

The Mizbe’ach, on the other hand, is entirely whole. This teaches us to fully appreciate the opportunity to serve Hashem, recognizing the wholesomeness and fulfillment it provides. Serving Hashem is the ultimate joy; it is the source of the perfect satisfaction and happiness we all seek.

May we merit to bring the Shechina into our midst and witness the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days.

Have a wonderful Shabbos!