Most weeks I find myself saying something like “there is so much to talk about in this week’s parsha” followed by making a choice to comment on some specific area that has intrigued me this time through.  With this in mind, it is perhaps odd that in the book of Shemot (Exodus) we find that the last half of the book (5 parashiyot) is devoted to an incredibly detailed description of the preparations for and the construction of the Mishkan (the portable tabernacle that accompanied the Israelites on their 40 year trek through the desert).  If that were not enough, it concludes with a detailed recap and accounting of the process.  It should be obvious that we are meant to draw many lessons from this.

The Israelites are asked to contribute the list of materials that will be needed for the construction project.  I think of this as the original “Building Fund” and, since it was the first time, the construction team had to ask the people to stop giving.  They had received more than they needed.  Perhaps it was the novelty of the request that made it so successful.  The Building Fund has endured through the centuries though rarely with that level of success.

The Israelites are then asked to contribute exactly one-half shekel each for the maintenance of the tabernacle.  This of course represents the original “Temple Dues” and this idea has also lasted through the centuries.  While our dues structure may have gotten more complicated over the years, the purpose has not changed.  The building where we gather to pray must be properly maintained.

What we see here is what today we call “buy-in”.  It is important that everyone feels that they have a personal stake in the construction and maintenance of the Temple.  It is this personal attachment that leads to the creation of a community, the feeling of being a part of an extended family that shares spiritual attachment.  This was important for the Israelites wandering in the desert; it is no less important for us today.

In concluding the construction of the Mishkan, Moses provides the people with a detailed accounting of what was donated and how it was used.  That Moses, who we are told spoke with God panim el panim (face to face), feels the need to account in detail for the donations, teaches us the level of behavior that is to apply to the handling of community funds.  Can we in any way justify being less particular than Moses in this regard?  Of course not.  And this level of trust helps to strengthen the family bond.

Heimish, or Heymish, or Haimish …  There may not be agreement on how to spell it, but there is no disagreement as to what it means:  homey, warm and comfortable, unpretentious.  It is when your congregation feels like your family.  It is Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley.

Alan Ziv

Vice President Ritual