This week, we read from two Sifrei Torah. We read both Parashas Vayakhel and then we deja vu to the beginning of Ki Sisa, where we read Parashas Shekalim.
In Vayakhel, the Torah describes how all of B'nei Yisrael participated in the building of the Mishkan. Everyone contributed their part, thus creating a communal effort in creating a home for the Shechina.
Parashas Shekalim highlights individual responsibility. It highlights how each Jew contributes half a shekel and becomes part of a whole. This symbolizes both equality and the essential role of each individual in the community.
The clear connection between these Parshiyos is the theme of interconnectedness. In both the building of the Mishkan and the giving of the half-shekel, the collective actions and contributions of the community are emphasized. This interconnectedness also applies to negative actions; for example, if someone misappropriated something intended for the Mishkan.
Rav Shach famously commented about Rav Noach Weinberg'…
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