Summary of The Weekly Torah Reading:
Parshas Vayakhel
Note: The Shabbos Torah Reading is divided into 7 sections. Each section
is called an Aliya [literally: Go up] since for each Aliya, one person
"goes up" to make a bracha [blessing] on the Torah Reading.
1st & 2nd Aliyot:
The Parsha begins with the Mitzvah of Shabbos and the
penalty for her transgression. Note that Pasuk 35:5 is classic proof of the
Oral Law. Those who deny the Oral Law must explain the literal translation of
this verse to prohibit having any burning flame on Shabbos. This would forbid
the use of lights, heat, and even Shabbos candles! It is the Oral Law which
teaches us that the G-d's prohibition was directed at lighting a fire, not
having a fire. Moshe asked the Bnai Yisroel to donate the time, talents, and
materials for the construction of the Mishkan [Tabernacle]. The Bnai Yisroel
responded with unbridled enthusiasm.
3rd, 4th, & 5th Aliyot
Talents and materials were donated and Betzallel and
Oholiav were appointed as chief architects and artists. The response to
Moshe's appeal was so great that Moshe had to command the people to stop
their donations! (see, miracles do happen!) The outer coverings of the
Mishkan and the inner tapestries are detailed. The beams of the Mishkan, the
Aron
Hakodesh, and the Shulchan - Table are described.
6th & 7th Aliyot
The Menorah and the inner Golden Altar are described. The
outer ramped Altar, the Washstand, and the Mishkan's surrounding enclosure
are detailed.
Parsha Summary by Rabbi Aron Tendler
