Amongst the various materials used in the construction of the Mishkan (the portable sanctuary used during the forty years in the desert) are a number of precious metals. Significantly, gold, silver, and copper feature prominently in the instructions. Indeed, our sages teach us that the purpose G-d created these metals was specifically that they be used in constructing His dwelling place. As an afterthought, people may also use them for their own private uses.
As with everything in Torah, there is a powerful message to be learned from the fact that the Torah specifies these three materials. Each of these metals illustrates a type of relation a Jewish person has with G-d and spirituality.
"Gold" relates to those people who at one time were completely immersed in materialism, but have since overcome their desires and now live a more lofty life. "Silver" are those of us who are not fazed by the negativity of the mundane world, but are able to view the world through a divine prism; sensing G-dliness in everything. And "copper" are those Jews who are in the midst of a daily struggle between a materialistic life or a more spiritual life.
The fact that Torah requires all three of these metals, shows that G-d wants the unique, individual service of all of us. Even those who struggle with their relationship with the divine, need to realize that their struggle is precious, and only when we are all united as one people, can we truly build a house worthy for G-d to dwell amongst us.
As I’m sure everyone is aware, Pesach begins three weeks from today. We will be preparing two, beautiful Seders for our community, and anyone who is interested in joining us is more than welcome. For those who will be making their own Seders, we will be distributing traditional handmade round Matzah to all who would like them.
As with everything in Torah, there is a powerful message to be learned from the fact that the Torah specifies these three materials. Each of these metals illustrates a type of relation a Jewish person has with G-d and spirituality.
"Gold" relates to those people who at one time were completely immersed in materialism, but have since overcome their desires and now live a more lofty life. "Silver" are those of us who are not fazed by the negativity of the mundane world, but are able to view the world through a divine prism; sensing G-dliness in everything. And "copper" are those Jews who are in the midst of a daily struggle between a materialistic life or a more spiritual life.
The fact that Torah requires all three of these metals, shows that G-d wants the unique, individual service of all of us. Even those who struggle with their relationship with the divine, need to realize that their struggle is precious, and only when we are all united as one people, can we truly build a house worthy for G-d to dwell amongst us.
As I’m sure everyone is aware, Pesach begins three weeks from today. We will be preparing two, beautiful Seders for our community, and anyone who is interested in joining us is more than welcome. For those who will be making their own Seders, we will be distributing traditional handmade round Matzah to all who would like them.
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