Parshat Vayakhel: The Power of Collective Energy

This week’s Torah portion is Vayakhel, which is often read together with the following portion, Pekudei. These two portions share a unique connection, as they both recount the building of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. Previously, in Parshiyot Terumah and Tetzaveh, Hashem commanded the construction of the Mishkan and its vessels. Now, in Vayakhel and Pekudei, we see the actual execution of those instructions.

The question arises: Why does the Torah repeat the details of the Mishkan? Given that the Torah does not use unnecessary words, why not combine the commandment and its execution in one place? The answer lies in the spiritual process the Mishkan represents.

The Mishkan is not just a physical structure; it is a reflection of our spiritual journey. As the verse states, “V’asu li Mikdash v’shachanti b’tocham” (Exodus 25:8), “Make for Me a sanctuary, and I will dwell within them.” The plural form “b’tocham” indicates that Hashem’s presence is meant to dwell within each individual, not merely in a physical structure.

In this sense, Terumah and Tetzaveh represent the divine command—the spiritual potential that exists within us. But potential alone is not enough. Vayakhel and Pekudei teach us the importance of action, of bringing divine instruction into reality. Our purpose in this world is to actualize our spiritual potential and reveal Hashem’s presence through our actions.

The Dual Dynamic: Collective and Individual

The names of these two portions also hold deep significance. Vayakhel comes from the word “kahal”, meaning congregation, representing the power of the collective. Pekudei, from the word “lifkod”, means to count, emphasizing the importance of the individual. Together, they teach us that both the collective and the individual are essential in fulfilling Hashem’s plan.

A community is made up of individuals, each with their unique strengths. True unity is not about erasing individuality but about harmonizing diverse talents for a greater purpose. This lesson has been deeply felt in Israel, especially since October 7th, when the power of unity has been central to the nation’s strength and resilience.

The Mishkan: A Collective Effort

The Mishkan was built under the leadership of two great individuals: Betzalel ben Uri from the tribe of Yehuda and Oholiav ben Achisamach from the tribe of Dan. Rashi explains that Hashem specifically chose leaders from both the highest-ranking tribe (Yehuda) and the lowest-ranking tribe (Dan) to emphasize that the Mishkan belonged to everyone. This teaches that holiness is not reserved for an elite group; every person, regardless of their background, has a role in bringing Hashem into the world.

Shabbat and the Mishkan

Vayakhel begins with the commandment of Shabbat, highlighting its role in unifying the week’s work. The phrase “Six days work shall be done” suggests that work happens almost automatically when infused with divine purpose. Shabbat, the culmination of the week, corresponds to the Sefirah of Malchut (Kingship), which unites all the previous days into a harmonious whole. Just as a king unifies his kingdom, Shabbat elevates all the efforts of the week, reminding us of our collective purpose.

Lessons for Our Lives

The construction of the Mishkan mirrors our own inner work. Just as Betzalel could perceive the divine blueprint, we too must look within to discover our own spiritual mission. Yet, just as Oholiav contributed a different perspective, we must also recognize the value of others in our spiritual journey.

Unity does not mean uniformity. Each person has a unique role, just as each tribe contributed differently to the Mishkan. When we embrace both our individuality and our collective responsibility, we create a world where Hashem’s presence can dwell.

Listen: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/episodes/Parshat-Vayakhel-The-Power-of-Collective-Energy-e30e4lb