By: Lower School Judaic Studies Teacher Rabbi Yehuda Filler
Building a Dwelling for G-d in Our Lives
This week's parshah, Pekudei, concludes Sefer Shemos with a powerful message. Our Sages teach, "Everything follows the conclusion" (Berachos 12a) meaning that the final episode of the book reveals its ultimate purpose. The book of Shemos begins with the suffering and enslavement of Bnei Yisrael in Egypt and culminates with the Shechinah (Divine Presence) filling the Mishkan. This teaches us that true redemption is not just physical freedom but the ability to bring G-dliness into the world.
The Giving of the Torah at Har Sinai was a spiritual event, but for the connection between the infinite and the finite to be complete, the Jewish people needed to create a space where G-d’s presence could dwell permanently. This was accomplished through the construction of the Mishkan, where material elements were transformed into a home for G-d. However, the book does not end simply with G-d’s presence descending. Instead, it closes with a message of movement: "When the cloud would ascend from above the Sanctuary, the Children of Israel would set forth on all their journeys." (Shemos 40:36)
This teaches us a powerful lesson. G-d’s presence is not confined to one place. Rather, wherever we go and in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we have the mission to create a Mishkan, a home for G-dliness. Even in moments when holiness seems hidden, our efforts to refine the material world bring about a deeper and more complete redemption.
As we conclude Sefer Shemos with Chazak, chazak, v’nischazek "Be strong, be strong, and may we be strengthened" let us take this message with us. Each of us is on a journey, and our task is to bring G-d’s presence into every part of our lives.
Based on the teachings of the Rebbe
Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Yudi