A TorahTutors tutor shared an idea about the Mishkan (the current topic of the weekly Torah portions), that she heard from Rav Riskin, with several of her younger students.
Ramban suggests that the Mishkan was an extension of the experience of receiving the Torah, as it provided a new location for developing closeness with God. Our shuls and Jewish schools similarly help extend the same experience and goal.
Another setting that is particularly conducive to connecting with God is the Jewish home on Shabbat – and many details about Shabbat parallel the Mishkan!
The tutor challenged her students to figure out how each of the following connects to the Mishkan:
- The Shabbat candles
- Kiddush
- Blessing of the children
- The challahs
- Salt for the challah
- Zemirot (special songs of praise sung at the Shabbat table)
Want the answers? We’d be happy to arrange a special session with the tutor for you. ?
*****
Ok, we won’t leave you in suspense.
Here are the parallels she discussed with her students:
- The menorah
- Wine libations that accompanied each sacrifice
- Parents bless their children with the same words the kohanim would use to bless the Jewish people.
- The lechem hapanim
- Salt was used with each sacrifice
- Our songs on Shabbat are reminiscent of the songs of the Leviim.
Of course, there are other connections too – what can you think of?
*****
We’ll still be happy to connect you with a tutor to learn more about these ideas, and/or any other area of Torah that interests you!
And as the tutor concluded – may we all merit to bring the sanctity of the Mishkan into our homes.
A Tuesday TorahTutors Tidbit: real Torah, from real TorahTutors sessions.
