All Fired Up: The soul of Shabbat
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)
| Related Text: | לקוטי שיחות - חלק לו: ויקהל |
| Podcast: | Subscribe to Moishe New - Commentaries on the Torah |

The Torah commands that the "Fire on the Altar" be kept burning continually to teach that our passion or love for HaShem never cease. Starting a fire, on the other hand, means that we create something new: much effort or labor goes into kindling a fire from scratch. from gathering sticks, arranging them in their set order and then striking a flame from flint and metal requires a degree of mental concentration, agility of the hands and a certain amount of passion. Yet the Torah commands that everything should be prepared in advance so that one may focus on the higher aspect of Shabbat which is to worship the Creator....