Va-yak-hel

After Moses’ descent from Mount Sinai with the second set of tablets, he informed the people of God’s instructions for the construction of the Sanctuary. Moses also emphasized the importance of refraining from any kind of work on Shabbat. The Israelites responded to Moses’ appeal for voluntary contributions of material and assistance most generously; their donations exceeded what was required.

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P’kudei

The total cost incurred in the construction of the Sanctuary was counted at Moses’ command under the direction of Itamar, Aaron’s youngest son. The weight of the gold amounted to 29 talents and 730 shekels; of the silver to 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, and of the brass to 70 talents and 2,400 shekels. The work, having been completed with the making of the priestly garments, was inspected and approved by Moses, who blessed the people for their magnificent achievement.

On the first day of the first month (i.e. Nisan, almost a year after the departure from Egypt), the Tabernacle was erected under Moses’ personal supervision, and the contents were arranged in the prescribed order. A cloud covered the Tabernacle, which was filled with God’s glory. Whenever the cloud lifted it gave the signal to the Israelites to continue their journey.

With the Sidra Pekude we conclude the Book of Exodus