Vayakhel-Pekudei Videos

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Why did Moses give a full audit of all the materials used in the construction of the mishkan (sanctuary)? Was Moses not trusted?

A new and deeply personal appreciation of Shabbat emerges as we examine: (a) the nature of work forbidden on Shabbat; (b) the connection between Shabbat and the construction of the Sanctuary; (c) why the Torah singles out the prohibition of kindling a fire to teach something novel about the Shabbat labors. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 36, parshas Vayakhel)

The High Priest's apron-like garment called the "ephod" had gems over the shoulder straps with the names of the twelve tribes engraved in them. The classical sources differ as to the order in which the tribes were named on the jewels. A spiritual interpretation of these opinions is that they describe two kinds of Jewish unity. (Based on Likutei Sichos, vol. 36.)

Study some of the highlights of the weekly Torah portion with insights from various commentaries.

Examining the commentaries on the seemingly redundant word “mishkan” (Tabernacle) reveals profound insight into the everlasting nature of the mishkan.

Two important lessons for life that Rashi derives from the production of the Mishkan: 1) Use your talents well; 2) Be kind to all.

A taste of Shazak Parsha, where the weekly Torah portion comes alive! Geared for kids... Great for adults!

G-d’s home on earth is not complete without everyone’s contributions.

If Shabbat is such a beautiful gift, why are there so many rules and restrictions, which can be seen as a big burden?

All of Israel were instructed to contribute toward the Mishkan, yet the leaders of the twelve tribes waited to donate after the rest of the nation.

When Moses wasn’t able to erect the heavy walls of the Mishkan, he’s told to do his part and leave the rest to G-d—nothing less and nothing more.

How the story of a Sage's strange behavior at a wedding provides the key to living life to the fullest. (Based on the maamar Bosi L'gani 5735)

On Shabbat work is forbidden. But what defines work? The Torah defines work as any of the activities that were required for the construction or function of the Mishkan, the Divine Sanctuary. This class will explain the deeper connection between Shabbat and the Mishkan, and thereby outline the Divine template for a meaningful life. (Maamar, Vayakhel Moshe 5714)

The uppermost covering of the Divine Sanctuary, the Mishkan, was the hide of a creature the Torah identifies as the 'Tachash'. The Sages disagree as to what type of creature it was, but all agree that it existed only then and that its hide was multicolored. This class will address Rashi's commentary on the subject and reveal the profound spiritual message contained therein. (Likutei Sichos vol. 31)

An analysis of the final chapter of Hilchos Beis Habechirah, which details the design of the Beis Hamikdosh, leaves us with a deeply moving insight into what transforms a house into a home. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 21 Vayakhel sicha 1)

The name of each Torah portion contains the central theme and lesson for the respective portion. Comparing and contrasting the names Vayakhel and Pekudei crystilize two crucial life perspectives.

Why are these portions that talk all about building the Tabernacle also the context for learning about a day of rest? What is the connection between observing Shabbat and making a place for G-d's presence to dwell?

The Holy Ark in the Mishkan (Divine Sanctuary) had many features that contain numerous layers of meaning and symbolism.

The prohibition on Shabbat to light a flame is explicitly stated in the Torah, different than the other 39 categories of forbidden labor, which are only implicitly derived from the labors performed in the construction of the mishkan. Why does the Torah single out kindling a fire?

The Torah’s gives a glowing description of the women’s exceptional contributions towards constructing the Mishkan—highlighting the feminine superiority of faith. This class also uncovers intriguing nuggets on the art of spinning goat-hair, a ghost-written prayer, and the special connection to Rosh Chodesh.

This class examines the Torah’s criticism of the Jewish leaders in the desert for appearing sluggish in their contributions to the building of the Tabernacle. Rashi, in his analysis of this story, teaches us a fundamental lesson in leadership. Based on Lekutei Sichos 12)

After their terrible downfall with the golden calf, the Jewish people had to come together, pick up the pieces and move forward to implement the command to build a home for G-d.

A taste of Shazak Parsha, where the weekly Torah portion comes alive! Geared for kids... Great for adults!

An analysis of Rashi’s second commentary in Parshat Pekudei, which addresses the repetition of the word Mishkan, and examining the nuances of the printed version in contrast to other manuscripts. (Based on Likkutei Sichot, vol. 11, pg. 175 and manuscripts in the Bodleian Library, Oxford)

In last week’s class, the basic human needs of food, clothing and shelter were explored on multi-levels: physical, psychological, spiritual and the Divine. This class will continue to develop this theme together with the implications and lessons for our daily lives. (Based on Maamar Vayakhel Moshe 5714)