Day 20: Dvar Torah – Parshat Terumah
by Estie Greenwald (NJ Impact Fellow)
This week’s parsha, Parshas Terumah, includes the mitzvah for Bnei Yisrael to collect a terumah (a donation) for Hashem, to build the Mishkan. Rabbi Sacks explains that until now, Bnei Yisrael had mostly been on the receiving end. Hashem took them out of Mitzrayim, split the sea, gave them the mann, water, and protection. They were recipients of constant kindness. And now, for the first time, Hashem gives them the opportunity to give back. This is the moment the relationship shifts. Hashem invites them to become givers. And what’s so beautiful is that Hashem didn’t ask for one specific thing from everyone. Each person brought something different: gold, silver, copper, wool, wood or skill, talent, craftsmanship. Every contribution mattered. This illustrates accessibility so clearly. Giving every person the chance to contribute with whatever they have to give.
Hashem didn’t ask only the wealthy elites to donate. He created space for every single person. Everyone had a role, everyone could help build the Mishkan. Accessibility in action means creating a community where every person can bring their talents to contribute, regardless of ability or skill. And this teaches us that place for Hashem’s presence is only complete when everyone has the opportunity to contribute.
Have an incredible Shabbos!!!