Before we dig in, there is a thought from the Torah version I’m reading that speaks to the name of this week’s Parsha, “Terumah:”

“The word terumah has two meanings; in the plain sense it means a contribution to a sacred cause. In a deeper sense, terumah means “elevation.” Both meanings go hand in hand.

By making a contribution to a sacred cause you elevate the money from its material state to a higher spiritual plain. You also elevate your whole being including all the energy and effort that went into earning the money which you

donated.”

That’s an interesting way of looking at donations.

BTW; if you want to contribute to a sacred cause; I strongly encourage you to give to Chanad, as they have contributed and elevating my learning over the years to bring me to a place to share with all of you:

So, let’s dig in:

Todays portion covers the partition in the tabernacle. Like the roof, it needed animal designs professionally woven into it. This was to create the “holy of Holies” inside the tabernacle.

Then Hashem discussed about where the Ark should go- behind the partition.

Next we are to put the lid over the ark.

Then put the table outside the holy of holies and the candelabrum on the opposite side of the table. The table was on the north and the candle was on the south side. To enter into the Holy of Holies you would pass between the table and the candelabrum. I’m chewing on the significance of that.

Finally Hashem tells us to build a curtain for the entrance to the tent.

I’m really reflecting on what this means for me internally; where is the ark inside of me? Where is my holy of Holies. Do I keep this place guarded and safe? Or do I rip the curtain down; or build a brick wall? The idea of a curtain to protect the holy of Holies is both a picture of boundaries AND fragility/vulnerability. I think that is something I’m learning to navigate.

What are your thoughts?